PRIMARY DEPARTMENT | 

SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSONS 



STORIES 

FROM 

THE UFE OF 
CHRIST 





DESERET SUNDAY SCHOOL ON 
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH 








Class 

Book 

Gopyright^°_ 



COPYRIGHT DEPOSITi 



C-fuvic^ oi WUAA* CW 'MM-c 

STORIES from 

The Life of Christ 



FOR THE 



Primary Department of the 
Sunday School 




PUBLISHED BY THE 

DESERET SUNDAY SCHOOL UNION 

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH 

1916 






Copyright 1916 by 
Joseph F. Smith 

for 

Deseret Sunday School Union 



ft 



MAY t2 1916 




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PREFACE 



The following lessons are simply a compilation of 
^ outlines and suggestions to teachers, heretofore published 
in the "Juvenile Instructor," and are not intended as 
full expositions of the stories or incidents in the Life of 
Christ, but presumed to be sufficient to aid the teacher 
in her preparation in directing the line of thought and 
indicating the points to be brought out. Space would 
not permit more. 

It is expected that the teacher will read and' prayer- 
fully study for herself the text in the New Testament, 
never considering her preparation complete without 
having done so. 

We urge reference to Weed's "A Life of Christ for 
the Young," as especially helpful in the lesson setting, 
and, as far as in accordance with our understanding of 
the events and the significance of them, in the clear 
manner of telling the story — at the same time caution 
the teacher against attempting to use all the contents 
of the chapters referred to, and especially to avoid those 
points not in strict accordance with our understanding 
of Gospel truths. 

We hope to offer further suggestions — on the Fast 
Day work, on illustrations, songs, etc. — through the 
columns of the "Juvenile Instructor." 



TABLE OF CONTENTS 



Page 
Lesson 1 The Birth of Christ (including the Annuncia- 
tion) 7 

Lesson 2 The Message to the Shepherds 12 

Lesson 3 The Presentation in the Temple 17 

Lesson 4 The Wise Men of the East 19 

Lesson 5 The Flight into Egypt 24 

Lesson 6 The Visit to Jerusalem 29 

Lesson 7 John and His Preaching 32 

Lesson 8 The Baptism of Jesus 36 

Lesson 9 The Cleansing of the Temple 39 

Lesson 10 The Chosen Twelve 43 

Lesson 11 The Sermon on the Mount 48 

Lesson 12 Christ and the Rich Young Man 52 

Lesson 13 The Widow's Mite 55 

Lesson 14 The Blind Man 59 

Lesson 15 Healing the Centurion's Servant 64 

Lesson 16 A Woman's Faith 68 

Lesson 17 Jesus Raises Jairus' Daughter 70 

Lesson 18 Jesus Raises Lazarus 74 

Lesson 19 The Lost Sheep 78 

Lesson 20 The Sower 81 

Lesson 21 The Good Samaritan 84 

Lesson 22 Feeding the Five Thousand 87 

Lesson 23 Walking on the Water 91 

Lesson 24 Stilling the Tempest 94 

Lesson 25 The Woman of Samaria 97 

Lesson 26 Jesus and Nicodemus 100 

Lesson 27 Jesus and John Baptizing 103 

Lesson 28 Jesus Blessing Little Children 106 

Lesson 29 Mary and Martha 108 

Lesson 30 The Triumphal Entry 112 

Lesson 31 The Last Supper 115 

Lesson 32 The Betrayal and Arrest 118 

Lesson 33 The Crucifixion and Burial 121 

Lesson 34 The Resurrection 124 

Lesson 35 The Ascension 127 

Lesson 36 The Great Pentecost 130 



Stories from the Life of Christ 



LESSON 1. THE BIRTH OF CHRIST 

Text: Luke 1 :26-56 and 2:1-7. 

References: For story, told in full, see Juvenile 
Instructor, December, 1913, and December, 1911. 

Aim: The Lord manifests His love for His children. 

Memory Gem: "For God so loved the world, that 
He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth 
in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." 

Song: Christmas Cradle Song. 

Pictures: Annunciation (Hofmann) ; A Madonna. 

Outline : 

I. Prophecies concerning the Savior. 

1. Through Adam. 

2. Through the prophets in Judea. 

II. The Angel's Visit. 

1. The appearance to Mary. 

2. The message. 

3. Mary's joy. 

III. The Journey to Bethlehem. 

1. Caesar Augustus' decree. 

2. Home of Joseph and Mary. 

3. On the way to Bethlehem. 

IV. At Bethlehem. 

1. The arrival. 

2. Rest in the khan. 

3. The birth. 



8 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

Point of Contact: The baby in the home. Talk with 
the children about the love we have for the baby; what 
we do to show our love. God shows His love for us 
when He sends a baby to our home. Today w r e are go- 
ing to talk about the most wonderful baby that ever 
came to the earth. This baby was the Son of God, the 
only begotten of the Father. God so loved us that He 
sent His only begotten son to the earth to live among 
us, and to die for the sins of the world. What was 
this baby's name? Yes, today our lesson is about the 
baby Jesus. 

Lesson Statement : When Adam and Eve came to live 
upon this earth they walked and talked with God, but by- 
and-by they were shut out from this presence, and they 
were unhappy. A promise was given to them, however, 
which made them rejoice. You remember they were told 
that at some time a Savior should come who would die for 
the sins of the world, who would offer His life as a 
sacrifice for us. 

Adam and Eve and their children never forgot this 
promise, so God's people were always looking forward 
to the time when a King and Redeemer should come 
upon the earth. 

Our Heavenly Father sent many prophets to teach 
His people how to serve Him. You remember the 
prophets Samuel, Elijah, and Elisha. Other prophets 
were sent also. These men reminded the people of 
the promise God had made and endeavored to get them 
to serve the Lord. What did the people do? How 
were they punished? 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 9 

The children of Israel, or Jews, as they were now 
called, had suffered much because they would not obey 
God. Although they were back in their own land, things 
were not the same now as they were before. This land 
was now ruled over by Caesar Augustus, who lived 
away off in Rome, and a king named Herod was ap- 
pointed by him to rule over Judea and all Palestine. 
He was a man who loved power, and he was merciless 
and cruel. He had no love for the Jews or for their 
religion; but in order to gain their good will he spent 
a great deal of money in restoring and beautifying the 
Temple, until it was made even more beautiful than in 
Solomon's reign. But the people knew that Herod was 
a wicked man and they feared him, looking forward to 
the time when their own king should rule in his stead. 
The prophets had often spoken of the Savior as a king, 
and many of the people thought that when Jesus came 
upon the earth He would be a king, like David, or 
Solomon, and so they were anxiously waiting His 
coming. 

In the city of Nazareth, in one of the small, white, 
flat-roofed houses, there lived a beautiful young girl 
named Mary. She was beloved by every one because 
she was pure and true and living a beautiful God-fearing 
life. One day when Mary was in the house alone she 
was surprised by hearing someone speak to her. The 
voice said, "Hail,, thou that are highly favored, the Lord 
is with thee: blessed art thou among women." 

When Mary raised her eyes she saw an angel of 
the Lord before her and she wondered what this saluta- 
tion could mean. 



10 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

The angel continued, "Fear not, Mary : for thou hast 
found favor with God. And, behold, thou shalt bring 
forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus. He shall be 
great, and shall be called the son of the Highest." 

Mary had worked in the Temple ; she had also 
studied the scriptures, and when the angel said her son 
should be called the Son of God, she understood this 
wonderful blessing that was conferred upon her. With 
perfect faith and obedience she answered, "Behold the 
handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy 
word. And the angel departed from her." 

With thanksgiving in her heart Mary waited for 
the fulfillment of the Lord's will. 

Nazareth, the city in which Mary lived, was high 
above the plain, in a beautiful fertile valley surrounded 
by rolling hills. The white houses along the narrow 
streets, the green of the trees and bushes, and the pro- 
fusion of flowers, made a very attractive spot. 

In one of these little white houses lived Mary and 
her husband Joseph. They were preparing for a jour- 
ney; for, as they were of the house of David, they must 
go to the city of David, to Bethlehem, to be taxed, for 
Caesar had sent "out a decree that all the world should 
be taxed. And all went to be taxed, everyone to his 
own city." They had to travel about sixty miles. That 
would not be a long journey if one could go in a train 
or an automobile or even in a carriage, but these people 
traveled very differently. Joseph would have to walk 
all the way, and Mary would ride upon a donkey, so it 
would take three or four days. 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 11 

So, borne upon the back of a donkey, which Joseph 
guided very carefully to avoid the rough places that she 
might ride more easily, Mary came to Bethlehem. But 
for all Joseph's care she was very tired and glad, indeed, 
when they reached their journey's end. Joseph, pushing 
his way through the crowd of people, went to ask if 
there was room for them in the inn. 

How beautiful Mary looked as she sat there among 
the people ! The noisy throng was hushed as they 
looked upon her. No one knew who she was, but the 
gentle holy light on her face filled the hearts of the 
people with awe and wonder. 

Joseph returned saying : "There is no room for 
us in the inn, but we can find rest and shelter in the 
cave back of the inn." 

Joseph guided the donkey through the crowds of 
people, through the inn gate, across the court, to the 
door of the stable which was built over the front of the 
cave. The guide threw the door open wide for them 
to enter. As they looked around they saw along the 
sides of the cave the mangers built for the animals. 
Sweet smelling hay was on the floor and this resting 
place looked very attractive to the weary travelers. 

When darkness lay over all the land, and the little 
village was wrapped in slumber, the little Christ Child 
came, the Savior for whom the people had been waiting 
and watching for so many years. 



12 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 



LESSON 2. THE MESSAGE TO THE SHEPHERDS 

Text: Luke 2:8-20. 

References: Weed's, "A Life of Christ for the 

Aim: God manifests His goodness to the humble. 
Young," Chaps. II, III; Ben Hur, XI. 

Memory Gem: "Fear not; * * * For unto you 
is born this day in the city of David, a Savior, which is 
Christ the Lord." 

Picture: Arrival of the Shepherds (Lerolle). 

Song: "Shepherds were watching their flocks 
through the night." 

Outline : 

I. The Shepherds. 

1. Their customs. 

2. Their expectation of the Savior. 

II. The Message. 

1. The watch. 

2. The Heavenly messenger. 

3. His message. 

- 4. The Angels' song of praise. 

III. The Shepherds' Faith. 

1. Journey to Bethlehem. 

2. Worship. 

Point of Contact: Through the child's knowledge 
of sheep and their care in our country lead him to under- 
stand the life of the shepherds of Palestine. 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 13 

Story: 

About two miles southeast of Bethlehem, and sepa- 
rated from it by a swell of the mountain, lies a plain 
where the shepherds find good pasturage for their flocks. 
In this plain was a field enclosed by a stone wall about 
as high as a man's head. Within this wall a hedge of 
rhamnus had been planted, thus making a very safe 
refuge for the flocks at night. 

In the very day on which Joseph and Mary found 
their way to Bethlehem, some shepherds led their flocks 
to this plain ; "and from early morning the groves had 
been made to ring with calls, and the blow of axes, 
the bleating of sheep and goats, the tinkling of bells, 
the lowing of cattle, and the barking of dogs. When 
the sun went down, they led the way to the enclosure, 
and by nightfall had everything safe in the field ; then 
they kindled a fire by the gate, partook of their humble 
supper, and sat down to rest and talk, leaving one on 
watch." 

These shepherds were rough-looking men. Their 
hair stood out from their heads in thick, coarse, sunburnt 
shocks ; their beards covered their throats and descended 
over the breast ; each wore a mantle of sheep or goat- 
skin girthed at the waist by a leather belt ; their sandals 
were of the coarsest material ; from the right shoulder 
of each hung a scrip containing food and stones for 
slings ; on the ground near each one lay his crook. 

"Such were the shepherds of Judea ! In appearance, 
rough and savage as the gaunt dogs sitting with them 
around the blaze ; in fact, simple-minded, tender-hearted : 



14 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

effects due, in part, to the primitive life they led, but 
chiefly to their constant care of things lovable and 
helpless." 

The shepherd took the lamb at birth and it became 
his charge : his to name and train ; his to guard from 
harm. It became his constant companion. 

On the Sabbath, these rude and simple men were 
wont to purify themselves and go up into the syna- 
gogues, where they listened to the service with great 
reverence, and thought long afterwards upon what they 
had heard. They had heard and believed the prom- 
ises of the Old Testament that the Savior, whom we call 
Jesus, would come. 

While they talked, and before the first watch was 
over, one by one the shepherds fell asleep, each lying 
where he had sat. 

Silence settled over the plain. The watchman 
walked back and forth. Occasionally he heard a stirring 
among the flocks, or a jackal's cry from the mountain 
side, but the night wore peacefully on. It was a beau- 
tiful clear night. The air was crisp, and the heavens 
sparkled with stars. The hour drew near for the next 
watch, and he made his way toward the place where his 
companions lay sleeping, longing for the dreamless sleep 
that would soon reward his labor. But as he neared the 
dying fire, he saw a bright light breaking around him. 
It grew so bright that he called to his companions : 
"Awake, awake ! The sky is on fire." 

All jumped to their feet, weapons in hand. As they 
stood looking upward the light became intolerably 
bright. They were filled with fear and sunk upon their 




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t/1 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 15 

knees and hid their faces upon the earth. But a voice 
gentle and soothing said unto them, "Fear not." The 
voice overcame their fear and as they arose upon their 
knees and looked worshipfully towards the bright light, 
they saw the personage of a man looking upon them 
with love and gentleness. As they gazed the angel of 
the Lord "said unto them, Fear not : for, behold, I bring 
you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all 
people." 

"For unto you is born this day, in the city of David, 
a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. 

"And this shall be a sign unto you ; Ye shall find 
the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a 
manger." 

The messenger ceased speaking. His good tidings 
were told. But as he paused he extended his hand to- 
wards them in blessing. Suddenly the light as far up 
as the shepherds could see was filled with angels "prais- 
ing God, and saying, 

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, 
good will towards men. 

"And it came to pass, as the angels were gone 
away from them unto heaven, the shepherds said one to 
another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see 
this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord has 
made known unto us." 

So, trusting their flocks to the care of Him who 
had sent this wondrous vision, the shepherds left the 
field and journeyed by night to the cave at Bethlehem, 
where they found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying 
in a manger. The shepherds knelt reverently and wor- 



16 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

shiped the tiny babe. Then, as they returned to their 
flocks, they praised and glorified God for the things that 
they had heard and seen. — Adapted from Ben Hur. 

Application: Our Heavenly Father sent this won- 
drous vision to these poor humble men. Can you tell 
why? "What does it mean to be humble? How do we 
show that we are humble? 




Presentation in the Temple 



Rembrandt Van Ryn 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST \J 



LESSON 3. THE PRESENTATION IN THE 
TEMPLE 

Text: Luke 2:22-38. 

Reference: Weed's "A Life of Christ for the 
Young," IV. 

Aim: The divinity of Christ. 

Memory Gem: "Lord, now lettest Thou Thy ser- 
vant depart in peace, * * * for mine eyes have seen 
Thy salvation." 

Picture: Presentation in the Temple. 

Outline : 

I. Joseph and Mary take Jesus to Jerusalem. 

1. Journey from Bethlehem. 

2. The custom. The offering. 

II. In the Temple. 

1. The presentation. 

2. The offering. 

3. Simeon. 

4. Anna. 

5. Mary's joy. 

III. Return to Bethlehem. 

Point of Contact: Blessing of our babies at Fast 
Meeting compared with the Jewish custom of naming 
the baby when eight days old, and when six weeks old 
taking it to the Temple to receive a blessing through 
the priest or rabbi. 

Lesson Statement: Lead the children to imagine 
Mary, with Jesus in her arms, seated upon an ox which 



18 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

Joseph guided, traveling through the light of the rising 
sun on a beautiful spring morning towards Jerusalem 
and the beautiful Temple where she would present her 
son to the Lord. Tell of the customary offerings. 

Describe the Temple sufficiently to give the 
children a clear mind picture. [Description is given in 
Weed's "A Life of Christ for the Young."] 

Luke does not tell us that the family returned 
to Bethlehem, but as the Wise Men found them there 
this fact should not be omitted from this lesson. 

Application: Through the review of the lesson 
endeavor to get the children to feel that this child was 
set apart from all others — He was the Son of God. His 
very name is sacred and should only be used when we 
speak reverently. 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 19 

LESSON 4. THE WISE MEN OF THE EAST 
Text: Matt. 2:1-12. 

References: Weed's "A Life of Christ for the 
Young," V; Ben Hur, Book First, I, V, XII-XIV. 

Aim: God rewards earnest effort in search of truth. 

Memory Gem: "Where is He that is born king of 
the Jews? for we have seen His star in the east, and are 
come to worship Him?" 

Pictures: Star of Bethlehem (Dore) ; The Magi 
(Hofmann). 

Outline : 

I. The Wise Men. 

1. Their learning. 

a. Science. 

b. Scripture. 

2. Their journey. 

3. Their question. 

II. Herod. 

1. His fear. 

2. Questions chief priests and scribes. 

3. Sends for wise men. 

4. The meeting. 

III. Search rewarded. 

1. Guided to house. 

2. Gifts and worship. 

3. Divine interposition. 

Point of Contact: Children go to school to get 
wise — to learn about all the beautiful things in this 



20 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

world ; but there are so many things to learn that even 
the wisest men do not know everything. Some men 
spend their lives studying and learn a great deal. They 
might be called w r ise men. 

Lesson Statement: (In some way many of us have 
the idea that the wise men were guided to the cave and 
found Jesus in the manger where the shepherds saw Him. 
It is so told in "Ben Hur" and some artists have so 
painted it. But in Matthew we read, "And when they were 
come into the house." They probably saw the star when 
Jesus was born and the time elapsing between His birth 
and their arrival was spent in traveling from their 
country.) 

In the countries far east of Palestine, at the time 
of the birth of Christ, there lived men called Magi, or 
wise men of the east, who spent their time in studying 
the stars. 

When the angels came from heaven to visit the 
shepherds on the plain, a new, bright star was seen in 
the heavens by these wise men in their far away 
country. They had read in the Jewish scriptures of a King 
or Redeemer who had been promised to the world, and 
when this new star appeared the Spirit of God made 
known unto them that the King who had been promised 
so long ago had at last come to bless the earth. 

So, seated upon large, white camels, and taking 
with them the rich gifts which they intended to present 
to the King, they journeyed through fertile plains, 
over mountain trails, along the courses of rivers, and 
under the scorching sun, over the dry, desolate sands 
of the desert. Then, passing the snowy ridge of Hermon 




Worship of the Wise Men 



Hofmann 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 21 

and the blue waters of the Sea of Galilee, through the 
valley of the Jordan and the fertile plains of Esdraelon, 
over the hills and highlands of Judea, they came at last 
to Jerusalem. 

At the gate of the city they inquired : "Where is He 
that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen His 
star in the east, and are come to worship Him." 

This question drew the attention of the people and 
soon it was noised abroad that strangers had arrived 
from the east inquiring for "Him who is born King of 
the Jews." The news spread through the city, at length 
reaching even to the palace of the king. When Herod 
heard it he "gathered all the chief priests and scribes 
of the people together, and demanded of them where 
Christ should be born." 

"And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judea: 
for thus it is written by the prophet." 

Then King Herod sent his messenger to tell the 
wise men to come to him. Glad, indeed, were they to 
receive this message, and they arose at once and followed 
the messenger through the narrow streets of the city to 
the palace, then through the gates of the palace and into 
the palace itself. Along wide corridors, up flights of 
stairs, past many beautiful rooms, the guide led them, 
till at last he halted and, pointing to an open door, 
said, "The king is there. Enter." 

Passing through the door, they found themselves 
in a very large room, richly furnished. On the center 
of the floor a rug was spread, and on this rug was the 
throne upon which sat King Herod, dressed in a robe 
of royal purple, with a crown upon his head. The Magi 



22 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

advanced to the edge of the rug and bowed to the 
ground before the king. 

When he had inquired of them when the star ap- 
peared, he said unto them, "I have this night consulted 
the Jewish priests and they say with one voice that 
He is to be born in Bethlehem of Judea. Go and search 
diligently for the young child ; and when ye have found 
Him, bring me word again, that I may come and wor- 
ship Him also."' 

The Magi returned to the khan, where their camels 
were in readiness, and at once set out for Bethlehem. 
As they journeyed along the road, "lo, the star, which 
they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and 
stood over where the young child was. 

"When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceed- 
ing great joy. 

"And when they were come into the house, they 
saw the young child with Mary His mother, and fell 
down, and worshipped Him ; and when they had opened 
their treasures, they presented unto Him gifts ; gold, and 
frankincense, and myrrh." 

Frankincense and myrrh were sweet-smelling spices, 
and were among the most precious things in their 
country. 

The object of their journey was accomplished, and 
now they must return to their own land, traveling again 
the long, dreary road over which they had come. 

But before starting homeward they must go back 
to Jerusalem and tell Herod that they had found the 
Child whom they sought. But at night, "being warned 
of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, 
they departed into their own country another way.'" 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 23 

Application: Do you remember a very wise king 
who built the Temple at Jerusalem? How did he get 
his wisdom? Do you think he studied and tried to 
learn? If the children do not know of the answer given 
to Joseph Smith's prayer, tell them. Apply to their 
lives. 



24 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 



LESSON 5. THE FLIGHT INTO EGYPT 
Text: Matt. 2:13-23. 

References: Juvenile Instructor, January, 1913, 
pages 52-53 ; WeecTs "A Life of Christ for the Young," 
VI. 

Aim: Obedience to the promptings of the spirit of 
the Lord brings protection. 

Memory Gem: "Arise, and take the young child 
and His Mother, and flee into Egypt." 

Pictures : Flight into Egypt ; Repose in Egypt. 
Outline : 

I. Herod's attempt to destroy Jesus. 

1. His power. 
. 2. His hatred. 

3. Wrath at the wise men. 

II. Joseph's dream. 

1. The warning. 

2. The angel's instructions. 

III. The Journey to Egypt. 

1. Departure. 

a. Time. 

b. Mode of travel. 

2. Arrival in Egypt. 

3. Sojourn in Egypt. 

IV. The return to the Land of Israel. 

1. "Out of Egypt have I called my Son." 

2. Angel's message. 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 25 

3. Preparations. 

4. Route. 

5. Arrival at Nazareth. 

Point of Contact and Lesson Statement: Nearly 
everybody loves little babies. Do you not love the baby 
in your home? Who were some of the people who 
loved the baby Jesus? He was the most won- 
derful and perfect baby that was ever born. Can 
you imagine anyone wanting to harm Him? And yet, 
there was the wicked King Herod who had heard Jesus 
called King of the Jews, and it had made him jealous. 
He was afraid that when Jesus grew to be a man He 
would want to sit on his throne and be king instead of 
Herod. Now, Jesus came to save the people and he did 
not want to sit in Herod's place. But Herod listened to 
the wicked spirit which prompted him to send out a 
cruel decree, that all children under two years of age 
should be killed. But although Herod was great and 
powerful, he could not harm the baby Jesus, for the 
Heavenly Father was watching over Him. 

When the wise men had left them, Joseph and 
Mary were filled with happiness, for was not this another 
proof of the divine mission of the precious baby 
entrusted to their care? But they were not to remain 
in peace in Bethlehem, for during the night an angel 
of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, 
"Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and 
flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee 
word : for Herod will seek the young child, to destrov 
Him." 



26 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

Joseph obeyed the heavenly messenger at once. 
Going to Mary he said, "Make haste ! Prepare for a 
journe}^. We must leave Bethlehem at once. Herod 
seeks to destroy the child." 

Mary's rejoicing over the adoration of her babe 
must have been turned to fear when she found that the 
king sought His life. 

How anxious she must have been to start on the 
journey when every hour took her loved one farther 
away from those who would hurt Him ! 

"Before the morning dawned they were on their 
way. They would not forget the house which for a 
while had been their home, as they hurriedly took 
from it their few garments and the presents the Magi 
had given them. 

"Mary, riding on the gentle and patient beast, carry- 
ing her precious child, hiding him as well as she could 
for fear one of Herod's men might be lurking near, and 
Joseph walking by their side, passed through the gate 
of Bethlehem. Starting while the morning star was 
yet in sight, they would be reminded of the Star of 
Bethlehem, which had guided the Wise Men to the 
spot they were leaving. They would remember that 
the same God who set both stars in the sky, and 
warned the Wise Men to go one way, and them to flee 
in another, would be their guide. 

"And so the long journey of eighty miles began. It 
must be slow, only as fast as the beast could carry his 
burden, and Joseph could walk. But every hour of the 
day carried them farther from Herod, and so lessened 
their fears. 




Flight into Egypt 



Plockhorst 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 27 

"For a while they went up and down steep moun- 
tain roads, between vineyards and groves, looking upon 
the green grass, and' smelling the sweet flowers of 
spring. But in a few days all was changed for the hot, 
dreary, sandy desert, where nothing grew except a few 
low shrubs, and sometimes a grove of palms. Under the 
shade of such, or of some lonely rock which the drifting 
sands did not cover, they rested. 

"At last the waters of the blue Mediterranean Sea 
were a pleasing contrast to the yellow sands of the 
desert. Crossing a shallow stream they rejoiced as they 
remembered that they had passed from the country of 
the dreaded Herod into the land of Egypt, whose king 
they need not fear." (From Weed's "A Life of Christ 
for the Young.") 

Here in a little village they found a friendly home 
for three or four months. 

"But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of 
the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt. 

"Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his 
mother, and go into the land of Israel ; for they are 
dead which sought the young child's life. And he arose, 
and took the young child and his mother, and came into 
the land of Israel." 

While they no doubt enjoyed the quiet sojourn in 
Egypt, they rejoiced to be once more in their own land. 
Joseph moved toward the little town of Bethlehem, but, 
"being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into 
the parts of Galilee." 

"And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth." 

You remember Nazareth is the small town in the 
mountains of Galilee, encircled bv fifteen rounded hills 



28 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

Tn one of the small white flat-roofed houses they 
made their home. And here Jesus spent his childhood. 

Application: The Heavenly Father loves us. He 
has given us mothers and fathers who love us and take 
care of us and try to shield us from danger and 
sickness. No doubt every night and morning our 
mothers and fathers pray to Him to help them do what 
is best for their dear children. When we are eight 
years old and are baptized, who knows what is given 
to us? Yes, the Holy Ghost or Spirit of God; and it 
will protect us from danger if we heed its promptings. 
It will make us think and feel what is right, and help 
us remember things we have been told for our good. 




The Childhood of Christ 



Hofmann 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 29 

LESSON 6. THE VISIT TO JERUSALEM 

Text: Luke 2:40-52. 

References: Juvenile Instructor for February, 1913, 
pages 107-109 ; Weed's "A Life of Christ for the Young," 
VII, VIII, IX, X. 

Aim: We all have missions to perform and should 
qualify to accomplish them acceptably. 

Memory Gem: "How is it that ye sought me? 
wist ye not that I must be about my Father's busi- 
ness?" 

Pictures : The Childhood of Jesus ; Jesus' First 
View of Jerusalem; the Journey to Jerusalem; Christ and 
the Doctors. 

Outline : 

I. Childhood of Jesus. 

1. Nazareth. 

2. Home life. 

3. Joseph's occupation. 

II. The Yearly Feast. 

1. Journey to Jerusalem. 

2. Celebration of the feast. 

III. Jesus in the Temple. 

1. Joseph and Mary start homeward. 

2. Return to Jerusalem. 

3. Find Jesus in the Temple. 

a. With the doctors. 

b. Mary's question. 

c. His answer. 

IV. Return to Nazareth. 



3Q PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

Point of Contact and Lesson Statement : How many 
of you boys and girls ever help your mothers and 
fathers? When you grow older you will have still 
more things to do for them. Jesus used to help 
His father. He grew to be quite a boy in the city 
of Nazareth. Describe Nazareth, nestled among the 
hills of Galilee. The houses were small, square one- 
story buildings with flat roofs, probably very humble 
dwellings. Jesus grew up kind, loving, gentle and 
obedient. No doubt He always did as His parents 
wished. Speak of Joseph's trade and Jesus' help. 

Describe the excitement of the yearly feast; neigh- 
bors making ready for the long journey to Jerusa- 
lem. It was especially interesting in Joseph's home for 
this was to be Jesus' first visit to the feast. At the 
age of twelve, boys were entitled to take part in the 
Feast of the Passover. Tell of the journey with a con- 
course of people on camels, mules, horses and on foot. 
How inspiring must have been the view of Jerusalem. 
the Holy City ! Likely they raised their voices in a 
shout of hosanna amid the sweet tones of the flutes ! 

The feast lasted a week. During this time Jesus 
must have been continually interested in the scenes and 
incidents surrounding Him. What inspired Him with 
the deepest interest and reverence was the Temple — the 
House of God. Tell of the meetings with the rabbis ; 
of His questions and answers. 

During the homeward journey, tell of the dismay 
at finding Jesus missing ; of their return and 
where they found Him. Jesus had come to the realiza- 
tion that He had a special mission to perform for His 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 31 

Heavenly Father, and He was anxious to learn as much 
as possible of Him that He might fulfil His part in the 
most acceptable way. Teach Jesus' reply to His mother, 
"Wist ye not," etc. Jesus returned to Nazareth. He 
was always obedient to His earthly parents. 

Application: We all have work to do for our 
Heavenly Father, although not so great a work as Jesus 
had. What do the boys do for Him when they are twelve 
years old? (Just the same age as Jesus was in the 
Temple.) They are deacons and have duties to perform. 
One duty is passing the Sacrament. How happy you 
boys will be when you are old enough to do that work 
for your Heavenly Father! W T hen you grow still older 
you will have other work to do — perhaps will go on mis- 
sions, be superintendents of Sunday Schools, bishops, 
and other t things. The girls will likely be teachers, etc. 
If we wish to do our work well we must learn of the 
Lord, remember what our teachers tell us, and study 
about Him just as hard as we study our day school les- 
sons of reading and writing, etc. 



32 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 



LESSON 7. JOHN AND HIS PREACHING 

Text: Luke 1:5-25; 1:57-80; Matt. 3:1-12; 
Mark 1 :l-8. 

References: Juvenile Instructor for December, 1911, 
pages 723-726; Weed's "A Life of Christ for the Young," 
XI, XII. 

Suggestive Aim: Repentence is essential to salva- 
tion. 

Memory Gem: "Repent ye for the kingdom of 
heaven is at hand." 

Pictures: The River Jordan and John the Baptist 
(Murillo) ; St. John and the Lamb. 

Time: Shortly before the birth of Christ. 

Outline : 

I. John's Birth. 

1. Circumstances. 

2. The naming. 

3. Mission foretold. 

II. John's early life. 

1. His preparation. 

III. John's Mission. 

1. To preach repentance. 

2. To baptize by water. 

3. To prepare for Christ's ministry. 

4. How received. 

Point of Contact: AVhat is a kingdom? It is a 
country usually ruled over by a king or queen. 
This is our earthly kingdom. There is a Heavenly 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 33 

Kingdom ruled over by Jesus. He does not rule 
like an earthly king or queen, but He rules over 
all the good spirits in heaven and earth. We all 
want to belong to Jesus' kingdom, or the King- 
dom of Heaven. Today we are going to find out what 
we must first do before we can belong to this kingdom. 

Lesson Statement: Picture the home life of Eliza- 
beth and Zacharias ; their loneliness and desire of their 
hearts ; Zacharias' work in the Temple. Before the 
birth of our Savior, before the shepherds sang their 
song of joy, an angel appeared to Zacharias while 
in the temple. One day, as this priest was burn- 
ing incense in the Temple of the Lord, and a whole 
multitude of people were praying without, there 
appeared unto him an angel of the Lord, standing on 
the right side of the altar of incense. "When Zacharias 
saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him/' 

"But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: 
for thy prayer is heard ; and thy wife Elizabeth shall 
bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John. 
And thou shalt have joy and gladness;, and many shall 
rejoice at his birth." 

The angel also said that John should go before 
Jesus to make ready the hearts of the people, that they 
might receive the Savior when He should come. 

"And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall 
I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife well 
stricken in years." 

"And the angel, answering said unto him, I am 
Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God ; and am 
sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad 



34 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

tidings. And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able 
to speak, until the day that these things shall be per- 
formed, because thou believest not my words, which 
shall be fulfilled in their season." 

"And the people waited for Zacharias, and marvelled 
that he tarried so long in the Temple. And when he 
came out, he could not speak unto them : and they 
perceived that he had seen a vision in the Temple ; for 
he beckoned unto them, and remained speechless." 

The angel's words were fulfilled and by and by a 
little babe came to bless the home of Elizabeth and 
Zacharias. When the baby was eight days old, and 
according to Jewish custom was to receive a name, the 
friends called him Zacharias, after his father. "And his 
mother answered, and said, Not so : but he shall 
be called John." And when they turned to Zach- 
arias he wrote upon a paper "His name is John." 
"And his mouth was opened immediately, and his 
tongue loosed, and he spake, and praised God." 

The angel had promised that John should be 
filled with the Holy Ghost, or the Spirit of God, from 
his birth. He grew and waxed strong in spirit, and as 
he grew to manhood he wanted to prepare himself for 
the great work which our Heavenly Father had given 
him to do. He was a holier man than the people about 
him, and he was saddened by their sins. He wanted to 
be alone that he might know the will of God and pray 
to Him continuously, so he left his home, and went into 
the wilderness, where he lived for we know not how 
many years. 

A wilderness is a lonely place where no people live. 
So we may think of John in the mountains of Palestine, 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 35 

in the daytime wandering on the slopes or seated by 
a stream eating the honey found in the rocks or tree 
trunks, and at night making his bed upon the ground, 
with wild beasts and birds for his only companions. 
His clothes were of a coarse cloth called camel's hair, 
and he wore a leather girdle about the hips. 

When Jesus had grown to be a man and the 
time was near for Him to begin His ministry, John left 
the wilderness and began to preach. He told the people 
that the Savior who had been promised for so long 
would come among them; and that if they would be 
ready to receive Him they must repent of their sins. 
He said, "Repent ye : for the kingdom of Heaven is at 
hand.'' He spoke with such earnestness and power that 
many believed. Then He told them that they must be 
baptized and many were baptized, confessing their sins. 
But John said unto them, "I indeed baptize you with 
water unto repentance, but He that cometh after me is 
mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear." 

Application: What is meant by repentance? We 
must feel very sorry about our sins and never do them 
any more. This is what we must all do before we can 
belong to the Kingdom of Heaven. 

After we have repented, what must we do? 

We will speak more about baptism next Sunday. 



36 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 



LESSON 8. BAPTISM OF JESUS 

Text: Matt. 3 :5-17. Mark 1 :1-12. 

Aim: Baptism is essential to salvation. 

Memory Gem : "And Jesus, when He was baptized, 
went up straightway out of the water : and lo, the 
heavens were opened unto Him, and He saw the Spirit 
of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon Him ! 
and lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved 
Son, in whom I am well pleased." 

Picture: The Baptism of Jesus (Weberg). 

Outline : 

I. John at the River Jordan. 

1. Baptizes the multitude. 

2. Condemns insincerity. 

II. Jesus comes to John. 

1. His request for baptism. 

2. John acknowledges Jesus' superiority. 

III. The Baptism. 

1. Its necessity. 

2. The mode. 

IV. God's approval. 

1. The Holy Ghost in the sign of a dove, descending 

upon Jesus. 

2. His voice from heaven. 

Introduction: Talk with the children about any 
body of water which they have seen. If there is a 
child in the class who has been baptized have him tell 
about it. Then, from this beginning, draw a mind picture 




ft 
cti 

pq 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 37 

of John baptizing in the river Jordan. What did John 
teach the people was necessary before baptism? 

Lesson Statement: Many people were baptized 
by John in the River Jordan. But some of the 
people who came and asked for baptism had not 
really repented of their sins, and by the Spirit 
of God John knew this. So he said unto them, 
"Bring forth fruits meet for repentance." Show by 
your actions that you have repented, and do not 
think that because you have descended from Abraham 
that you will be saved. You must do what is right 
yourselves. 

One day when John was preaching to a crowd 
of people on the banks of the River Jordan, a stranger 
came to him and asked to be baptized. By the power 
of the Holy Spirit John knew this stranger to be Jesus, 
the Son of God. He knew that Jesus was without sin, 
and he did not feel that he was worthy to baptize Him. 

Jesus was a man now. He had just left His home 
in Nazareth and was ready to begin His ministry, but 
before doing so, He came to John for baptism. 

When Jesus came from Galilee to Jordan, unto 
John, to be baptized of him, "John forbade him, saying, 
I have need to be baptized of Thee, and comest thou to 
me?" 

"And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it 
to be so now : for thus it becometh us to fulfil all 
righteousness. Then he suffered him." 

Think of Jesus and John standing near the 
river, where they were talking, then going into the water 
where John raises one hand over Jesus' head and then. 



3£ PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

taking him by the hands, buries Him under the 
water and draws Him up again. We know that Jesus 
was baptized in this way, because the Bible says "Tesus, 
when, he was baptized, went up straightway out of the 
water : and, lo, the heavens were opened unto Him 
and he saw the spirit of God descending like a dove, 
and lighting upon him : And lo a voice from heaven, 
saying. This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well 
pleased/' 

Jesus, after His baptism, went from the Jordan into 
the wilderness where He could be alone to pray to His 
Heavenly Father before beginning His great work. 

"He went up straightway out of the water." What 
does this tell us about the mode of baptism? 

Application: In this lesson emphasize the fact that 
Jesus was baptized to show r us the way to enter His king- 
dom. Xo one can enter it unless he is baptized. How was 
Jesus baptized? Of course He would be baptized in the 
right way. Do any of the children know of any one 
who has been baptized in the same way? Have any 
of you? Tell how you were baptized. Then you were 
baptized just as Jesus was — the right way: and if you 
live in the right way you can enter the Kingdom of 
Heaven. 

At what age are children baptized? 

After you are baptized what must be done to make 
you a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- 
day Saints? 

How will the Holy Ghost help you? 

How must we live in order to keep the Holy Ghost, 
or the Spirit of God? 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 39 



LESSON 9. CLEANSING THE TEMPLE 
Text: John 2:12-16. 

References: Weed's "A Life of Christ for the 
Young,"' XVII ; Juvenile Instructor, February, 1913, 
page 112. 

Aim: Reverence for sacred places. 

Memory Gem: "Take these things hence; make not 
My Father's house an house of merchandise." 

Picture: Casting Out the Money Changers (Hof- 
mann). 

Outline : 

I. The Temple of Jerusalem. 

1. Its beauty. 

2. Its uses. 

3. To whom it belonged. 

II. Jesus' visit to Jerusalem. 

1. Purpose of visit. 

2. Journey. 

III. His visit to the Temple. 

1. The conditions He found. 

2. How he felt. 

3. "What He did. 

IV. Our places of worship. 

1. By whom built. Why? 

2. How we should regard them. 

Point of Contact: Begin this lesson with a talk 
about the home life, with father and mother at the head. 



40 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

Show that each has his place in the home and ought to 
add to its happiness. Get the children to tell what they 
can do. From the home lead to the houses of worship, 
then to the temples. Speak of houses of worship and 
temples as houses of the Lord. Speak of right conduct 
in these places. 

Lesson Statement: Describe the beauties of the 
temple at Jerusalem, situated upon the hill top, with its 
many terraces and its beautiful white pillars. It was 
called the House of God. Who first built this temple? 
Have the pupils tell what they can about Solomon's 
temple. While it was being built a reverent silence 
was maintained. In what city is this temple? What are 
temples for? When a building is built for worship and 
is a House of God it should always be treated with 
reverence. 

After Jesus had been baptized, He was then 
ready to do the work His Father had sent Him to do — 
to teach the people what was right and what was wrong. 
Naturally, much of His work would be in the largest 
city in that country. What is that city? What can you 
tell of Christ's first visit there? 

When Jesus came from the wilderness, where He 
had spent many days in fasting and prayer, He returned 
to Galilee, near the home of His childhood. As the 
time for the feast of the Passover drew near, He joined 
the caravan of pilgrims going to Jerusalem. While 
journeying thither He no doubt recalled that first 
visit to Jerusalem. Then He was going to the temple 
as a learner ; now He vas going to the temple as the 
Great Teacher. And so, with His thoughts upon His 




Driving out the Money Changers Hofmai 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 41 

great mission, He came to the House of God. What 
would He expect to find here? 

Around the grounds of the temple was a high 
wall. Within this wall was the court of the temple. 
As Jesus passed through the gate a scene of noise and 
confusion met His eyes. He saw oxen, sheep, cages 
filled with doves, tables piled with money. The men 
were offering their wares for sale and the noise filled 
the court. 

The animals were offered as sacrifices in the temple, 
and the people coming from different countries wished 
to change their money for the Jewish money. But these 
people had forgotten the sacredness of the temple, and 
were within the court of the temple which should have 
been held as sacred as the temple itself. 

When Jesus saw this confusion in the House of 
God, He made a scourge of small cords, drove them 
that sold oxen and sheep and doves out of the temple, 
with their animals,, and poured out the changers' money, 
and overthrew the tables. And He said unto them, 
"Take these things hence ; make not my Father's house 
an house of merchandise." After long years the temple 
was once more sacred to God. 

Show Hofmann's "Casting Out the Money Chang- 
ers." Contrast Jesus' expression with that of the others. 

Application: Why was Jesus angry? 
How do we show reverence? 
Have you ever been in the House of God? 
If you have reverence for that house what will you 
do there? 



42 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

Can you tell of any way in which you can show 
reverence for your chapel? Is there anything you can 
do from now on that you have not been doing? Have 
you noticed any markings or cuts on your building or 
on anything in it that do not show reverence? We 
wish our gifts to be as clean and beautiful as possible. 
We want the House of the Lord to be in that condition. 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 43 

LESSON 10. THE CHOSEN TWELVE 

Text: Mark 3:13-19; Luke 6:12-16; Matt. 4:18-22: 
10. 

References: Weed's "A Life of Christ for the 
Young," XIII, XXV; Juvenile Instructor for 1913, page 
251. 

Aim: The Lord's work is the greatest work a man 
can be called to do. 

Memory Gem: "Freely have ye received, freely 
give." 

Song: "I'll serve the Lord while I am young," 
Deseret Sunday School Songs, No. 159. 

Picture: Christ and the Fishermen. 

Outline : 
T. The Magnitude of Christ's Work. 

1. Help needed. 

2. The disciples. 

3. Prayers to His Father. 

II. The calling of the Apostles. 

1. Their ordination. 

2. Kind of men chosen. 

3. Their duties. 

III. The Organization of God's Church. 
President and Apostles. 

Point of Contact and Lesson Statement: When 
Jesus was upon the earth, He taught the people 
to be kind, loving, helpful, and many other things. 
But what they liked most of all was to hear about 
the Heavenly Father, and Jesus was always ready and 



44 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

willing to tell them. He worked very hard healing the 
sick, preaching to the people and walking from town to 
town, for in those days there were no trains. Often 
Jesus walked until His feet were so tired and sore that 
He could go no farther. But even with working thus 
hard, there were so many people to help and to teach, 
that He could not do it all. He was. oh, so anxious 
that everyone should know how to serve God. What 
must He do? Yes. He must have helpe 

He had already gathered around Him a goodly 
company : disciples, some of whom had left home 
and friends to follow Jesus. Some of the first disciples 
to be chosen were Peter. James and John. One day 
John the Baptist sai two men. who were with him 

when Jesus passed by. "Behold the Lamb of God." 
These words sank deep into their hearts and they 
knew that Jesus was the Christ, so the}- followed Him 
and "abode with him that day." 

One of these visitors was named John, and we shall 
often hear of him in our lesson; the other was named 
Andrew. Both Jokn and Andrew were fishermen. They 
took their nets and went out in the waters of the 

ralilee and caught fish which they sold to the people. 
After being with Jesus. John and Andrew probably 
hastened home to tell the glad news to their families. 
Andrew said to his brother Peter. "We have found the 
Christ." This indeed glad news to Peter. For he 

and Andrew, with other devout Israel you know, 

were always looking forward to His coming and talking 
of the promised Messiah - as they pushed their boat 
out from the shore one morning, we may be pretty sure 
that their thoughts were about Jesus. 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 45 

And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw the 
two brothers casting a net into the sea, "and He saith 
unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of 
men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed 
Him." 

"And going on from thence, He saw other two 
brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John, his 
brother, in a ship with Zebedee, their father, mending 
their nets; and He called them. 

"And they immediately left the ship and their father, 
and followed Him." 

Why were they willing to go? 

What did they leave? 

What would Jesus give them? 

Which did they love best — the Gospel or the com- 
forts of life? 

How do we show our love for the Gospel ? 

Help the children to understand that in serving 
those around us we show our love of God and serve 
Him. 

So these four men, Peter, James, John and Andrew, 
left their home, their mothers and fathers, their broth- 
ers and sisters — left all to be with Jesus. As Jesus 
journeyed with His companions He called other men 
also, until He had with Him several followers. All who 
believed Jesus' words and listened to His teachings 
were called His disciples. 

But now the time had come when Jesus needed 
men to help Him in His ministry ; men whom He could 
send out to teach the word of God ; men who would 
stand with Him at the head of the church. Do you 
suppose there was anyone good enough to do this? 



46 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

Certainly they must be men who would do their best, 
for He was to tell them the very things God told Him. 
How was He to know who these would be? Yes, He 
must pray to the Heavenly Father just as we would. "It 
came to pass in those days that He went out into a 
mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to 
God." 

The Bible does not say, but I am sure that when 
He was all alone there on the mountain, with the stars 
shining above and nothing to disturb Him, the Heavenly 
Father must have told Him which men to choose. "In 
the early dawn He came down from the mountain, with 
the dews of night upon His garments and with the dews 
of heaven upon His soul, which, like crystals or lenses 
of light, made the invisible and distant near." 

Then, from among His disciples, He chose twelve to 
be special helpers. These He called apostles. They 
were none of them wealthy men, but all were honest, 
true, and courageous, and loved Him with all their 
hearts. Peter, Andrew, James and John were among 
the chosen ones. 

He then ordained and set them apart that they 
might be with Him and that He might send them forth 
to preach and to heal in His name. They were to go 
without money and were to teach all the people whether 
they were treated kindly or not. 

Jesus kept these twelve men near Him all the re- 
mainder of His life, teaching them His gospel and show- 
ing them how to carry on His work after He left them 
to return to His Father in heaven. 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 47 

Application: Have you ever heard of apostles before? 
Where? Who is at the head of our Church now? Presi- 
dent Joseph F. Smith has with him, in his labors, twelve 
apostles, the same as Christ had. Do you know any of 
them ? 

When upon the earth Jesus organized His church, 
and when in our day Jesus told Joseph Smith to organ- 
ize His church, it was to be just the same as when Jesus 
was upon the earth, for our church is the Church of 
Jesus Christ. 



48 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 



LESSON 11. THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT 

Text: Matt. 5 and 6. 

References: Juvenile Instructor, for 1913, pages 252- 
254; Weed's "A Life of Christ for the Young," XXVI, 
XLVL 

Aim: True happiness comes from the Christian 
spirit of love, peace, and forgiveness. 

Memory Gem: One or more of the beatitudes. 
Picture: The Sermon on the Mount (Hofmann). 
Outline : 

I. The Multitude. 

1. The gathering. 

2. The healing. 

II. The Sermon. 

1. Beatitudes. (Select a few and illustrate.) 

2. The Lord's Prayer. 

Lesson Statement and Application: One day while 
Jesus and His disciples were upon the moun- 
tain, perhaps talking about their work and planning 
how best to teach the people, a great crowd gathered. 
In it were the blind, the lame, the sick, and 
the sorrowing, all coming to be healed and comforted. 
There were so many that He could not bless each one 
separately, so they crowded around Him and all who 
touched Him were healed. Besides being sick, these 
people were unhappy ; unhappy because they quarreled 
and did not love each other as they should. He could 
read their hearts, and He knew they needed to be taught 




Sermon on the Mount 



Hofmann 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 49 

how to live so that they might please their Heavenly 
Father. 

From the mountain side He began to teach the 
people. His discourse has been called "The Sermon 
on the Mount," and it was so wonderful a sermon that 
if we could only obey the teachings given in it, we 
would become like unto Him. 

He began His teaching by telling them who would 
receive the blessings of our Heavenly Father. 

His sayings that day are called "Beatitudes," which 
means happiness. He told the people to be happy them- 
selves by making others happy and by serving the 
Heavenly Father. To do this, they must be humble, 
merciful, just, and not get angry or speak evil of anyone. 

Do you think this would always be easy, especially 
if someone had been unkind to them? How can we be 
humble and merciful? 

One of these Beatitudes is "Blessed are the pure 
in heart, for they shall see God." What does "pure in 
heart" mean? Just think what a promise — "they shall 
see God." Let us repeat it all. Who are the "pure 
in heart?" Can we not all try to be, for such a promise 
as that? Who can say it all now? 

Another of the Beatitudes is, "Blessed are the peace- 
makers, for they shall be called the children of God." 

What is a peacemaker? Is there just one way of 
being a peacemaker? In what way could even little 
children be peacemakers? 

"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be 
called the children of God." If we are really peace- 
makers will it make other people happy? Will it be 



50 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

pleasing to God? Then how will we ourselves feel to 
be called the children of God? 

If we always do according to these sayings, we 
will be doing another thing Jesus told us to do. 
"Whatsoever ye would that men should do unto you, 
do ye even so to them," and then we will surely be 
happy. Let us repeat those words and learn them. 

Jesus taught them not only to pray, but He taught 
them how to pray. He told them to go alone by them- 
selves, to speak with quiet, gentle voices, and to be 
earnest and sincere in all they said. He taught them 
a prayer that is used all over the world, now, by people 
who love Jesus. It begins — "Our Father which art in 
heaven/' What is the name of that prayer? How 
many of you know it? I will say it, then you repeat it 
after me. Why do we say, "Our Father which art in 
heaven?" Jesus taught us that He really is our Father. 
He is better than any earthly father and can do more 
for us. He hears and answers our prayers and gives 
us all things that are for our good. 

"Hallowed" means holy. 

"Thy kingdom come" means we want everyone to 
obey God's laws on this earth as Christ taught us. 

"Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven." 
Explain the two ways of doing God's will — by being 
good and by doing good. 

"Give us this day our daily bread." Bread here 
means our daily needs — food, clothing, shelter, etc. 

"And forgive us our debts as we forgive our 
debtors." Debts here means sins. Our debtors are those 
who have treated us unkindly. 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 51 

"And lead us not into temptation but deliver us 
from evil." We pray God to make us strong enough 
to resist anything that would lead us to do wrong. 

The last part, "For Thine is the kingdom and the 
power and the glory, forever," means that we acknow- 
ledge Him as the Creator and Giver of all that is good, 
and that He should be loved, honored and praised 
forever. 

Who were the people who first used this prayer? 
Who taught it to them? Would we sometimes like to 
say this for our bed-time prayer? 

Tell the pupils that the lesson next Sunday will be 
on prayer, and ask each one to be prepared to tell how 
his prayers have been answered, or if he can not tell 
how his own prayers were answered, get him to ask 
his mother's and father's help, and relate their ex- 
perience. 



52 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 



LESSON 12. CHRIST AND THE RICH YOUNG 

MAN 

Text : Matt. 19 :16-30 ; Mark 10 :17-31 ; Luke 18 :18-30. 

Reference : Weed's "A Life of Christ for the Young," 
Chapter LIIL 

Pictures: Christ and the Rich Young Man. The 
Christ (Hofmann). 

Get the children to notice the contrast between 
Jesus and the man, both in expression and dress. 

Aim: Love for the Gospel, not for worldly things, 
brings eternal life. 

Memory gem: "If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell 
that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have 
treasure in heaven : and come and follow me." 

Outline : 

I. The Young Man. 

1. Wealth and position. 

2. Character. 

3. Goes to Jesus for information. 

II. The Savior's Teachings. 

1. "Keep the Commandments." 

2. The Young Alan's reply. 

3. "Sell that thou hast," etc. 

4. Effect upon the young man. 

Point of Contact : What have you got that you love 
very dearly? (Children may answer that they have par- 
ents, friends, brothers and sisters, pretty homes, furni- 
ture, clothes, toys, etc.) Who has given all of these 




e 
P 
o 



THE LIP'E OF CHRIST 53 

things? Whom should you love more than anybody or 
anything? If our Heavenly Father should want you to 
give these lovely things to somebody else, do you think 
that you could do it? If you could it would show that 
you love Him more than your beautiful things. 

Lesson Statement: There lived in the land of 
Palestine a wealthy young man who was a ruler among 
the people. He had a great desire to do what was 
right. He had lived a good clean life from his boyhood. 
He had faith in God and wished to so live that he might 
be one in God's kingdom when he left this earth, that 
he might forever dwell with Him, or, as he said, have 
eternal life. He had heard of Jesus and His teachings and 
decided to go to Him for help. He went to Him one 
day, when Jesus was walking with His disciples, and 
kneeling at His feet said unto Him, "Good Master, 
what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal 
life?" Jesus said, "Keep the commandments." And 
when the young man asked, "Which," Jesus said, 
"Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false wutness ; 
Honor thy father and thy mother ; and, Thou shalt 
love thy neighbor as thyself." 

The young man said. "All these things have I 
kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?" 

As Jesus looked upon him and saw so much that 
was good about him, He loved him. "If thou wilt be 
perfect," said the Good Master, "go and sell that thou 
hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure 
in heaven ; and come and follow me." Jesus looked into 
his heart and saw that he loved his wealth more than 
he loved Him and the Gospel. Bring out the thought 



54 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

that the fault was not because, he was rich, but because 
he loved his great possessions more than he loved the 
Gospel. 

But when the young man heard that, he went 
away sorrowful, for he was very rich. Why did he 
turn away sorrowful? A man who is rich can do much 
good. He can use his wealth to help those around 
him, but the Lord requires that the love of the Gospel 
come before everything else. 

Application: Our Heavenly Father wants us to give 
some of our things to the poor. He can tell if we love our 
money and our things more than we love the Gospel. 
He has told us to give one-tenth of all we make to His 
Church. He has asked us to give to the poor, especially 
on Fast Day. Sometimes our papas and brothers are 
called to go on missions and give up for a time all their 
dear ones, the comforts of home and their positions for 
the Gospel. When we grow up we may be asked to 
go on missions and even before we grow up we can 
give some of our money and things to the Church. If 
we do this the Lord will bless us just as He promised 
to bless the rich young man if he had given his riches 
to the poor. We will be much happier than the rich 
young man was. 

Note : More will be given on tithing in next Sun- 
day's work. 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 55 



LESSON 13. THE WIDOW'S MITE 

Text: Mark 12 :41-44; Luke 21 :l-4. 

Aim: The Lord considers the spirit in which a gift 
is given, not the amount. 

Memory Gem: "Of all that thou shalt give me, I 
will surely give the tenth unto thee." 

Picture: The Widow's Mite. 

Outline : 

I. In the Temple. 

1. Money boxes. 

2. Gifts. 

a. Of the rich. 

b. Of the widow. 

II. Jesus Comments. 

III. Tithing. 

Point of Contact: Ruth and Mary were the best 
of friends. They went to the same school and were in 
the same c 1 ass. As their homes were in the country, 
they had a long walk each morning, and the two 
little friends usually went together. Ruth lived in a 
large house and her father was wealthy; Mary's father 
was poor and her home was only a small house, but 
that made no difference. Mary loved to see Ruth's 
dainty dresses and thought how pretty she looked in 
them. She knew how hard her own mother worked 
for her and she was happy in her clean gingham aprons. 



56 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

One morning, when the girls got to school, they 
found a strange little girl there named Alice. Alice 
came into their class, and after school Ruth and Mary 
walked home with her. Afterward, the three little 
girls had good times as they walked to school in the 
fine autumn mornings. 

But one night a storm came, and the next morn- 
ing the ground, the fence rails, the trees, and the house- 
tops were covered with beautiful white snow. Ruth 
and Mary went running- along the street, laughing and 
shouting. It was a cold morning, but both little girls 
were dressed warm and so they did not mind the cold. 

Soon they came to the street where Alice lived. 
As she joined them, Ruth said, "Oh, Alice, you forgot 
your gloves. Go back for them. Your hands will 
freeze." 

But Alice answered, "I haven't any gloves." 

At recess the girls talked it over and decided to 
buy Alice a pair of warm gloves. 

Ruth said, "I have two dollars. I will give 
ten cents." 

Mary only had three pennies, but she said quickly, 
"I will give my three pennies." 

The other girls gave their nickels and dimes and. 
they soon had enough money to get the gloves for 
Alice. 

Which girl was the most generous, Ruth or Mary? 

Ruth gave only a small part of her money, but 
Mary gave all she had. 

Lesson Statement: In the Temple at Jerusalem 
there were chests or boxes into which people dropped 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 57 

their gifts. One day when Jesus was in the Temple, 
He sat near one of these boxes and watched the people 
as they put their money into it. One, perhaps, gave 
a large piece of silver, another gave gold. Some put 
their money in as if to say, "See how much I give." 
But then came a poor widow. She came forward to 
the box to offer her small gift. It was only a few 
cents, but it was all that she had and she dropped 
it into the box, no doubt regretting that she had no 
more to give. 

Then Jesus said to those about Him, "This poor 
widow hath cast in more than they all." They gave a 
little of what they had but she gave her all. 

Application: What did Jesus mean when He said 
she had given more than the others? 

Our Heavenly Father judges our hearts; He judges 
the spirit of the gift, not the amount. 

When do our parents give gifts to the Church? 

Yes, Fast Day. 

What else do they give? 

Yes, they pay tithing. 

You know our Heavenly Father has said that we 
must give to Him one-tenth of all that we have. That 
is, ten cents out of every dollar. 

Who gives us all our blessings? Our Heavenly 
Father gives us so much. He gives us all that we 
have and then Fie expects us to give back to Him one- 
tenth, to pay tithing. You boys and girls do not pay 
tithing now, but just as soon as you earn any money 
you can begin to do so. 



58 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

When Jacob had been greatly blessed of the Lord, 
he said, "Of all that thou shalt give me, I will surely 
give the tenth unto thee." 

And so, we who belong to the Church of Jesus 
Christ, give back to our Heavenly Father one-tenth of 
what He gives us. That isn't much to give back, is it, 
when we receive all that we have from Him? 

So we say, as Jacob said : "Of all that thou shalt 
give me, I will surely give the tenth unto thee." 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 59 



LESSON 14. THE BLIND MAN 

Text: John 8:12, 51, 59; 9. 

Reference : Weed's "A Life of Christ for the Young/' 
XLIV. 

Aim: The Lord blesses those who have faith in 
Him. 

Memory Gem: "Whereas I was blind, now I see." 

Picture: The Blind Man; (Bida). 

Outline : 

I. Jesus in the Temple. 

1. His teachings. 

2. They took up stones to cast at Him. 

II. The Blind Man. 

1. His sad life. 

2. Seen by Jesus and His Apostles. 

III. The Miracle. 

1. Jesus' action. 

2. The man's obedience. 

3. The healing. 

IV. Before the Pharisees. 

1. The people's surprise. 

2. Man taken to synagogue. 

3. Cast out. 

V. Divinity of Jesus. 

1. Jesus finds the man. 

2. The conversation. 

Lesson Statement: On the Sabbath Day Jesus was 
in the court of the Temple teaching the people. He said 



60 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

unto them, "I am the light of the world : he that follow- 
eth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the 
light of life.'' The Jewish teachers were displeased with 
Jesus for saying this, and when He told them that He 
came from God, the Father, and said, "If a man keep my 
sayings, he shall never see death," they "took up stones 
to cast at Him ; but Jesus hid Himself, and went out of 
the Temple, going through the midst of them, and so 
passed by." 

Near the gate of the Temple, by the roadside, 
sat a man who was blind from his birth. 

To t be born blind ; never to look into the face of 
father or mother; never to see the beautiful sunlight 
and all the beautiful things in the world ; to have to 
depend upon a staff when moving about ; to live in dark- 
ness — this is sad, indeed ! "And then to be unable to 
labor, and to be dependent on friends themselves poor, 
or on strangers, for daily bread — this is sadder still." 
(Weed.) 

As Jesus left the Temple with His disciples, He 
saw this blind man sitting by the way, and He looked 
with pity upon him. 

As they neared the man, the disciples questioned 
Jesus about his blindness. The kind words of Jesus 
made the heart of the blind man rejoice. He had 
no doubt heard of the Savior and the many miracles 
which He had performed. As he turned his sightless 
eyes toward Jesus, his faith must have shown in his 
face, for Jesus took some clay from the ground, "and 
He anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay." 

"And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of 
Siloam." 




The Blind Man 



Bida 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 61 

With never a doubt as to the outcome, the man 
hastened as fast as his helpless condition would permit. 
He hurried along to the pool outside of the city gates, 
feeling his way with his staff, and followed by a crowd, 
some of whom mocked. 

Reaching the pool he dipped his hand into the 
water and bathed his eyes, as Jesus had said, and, lo, 
his eyes were opened, and he saw as other men. What 
joy was his as he looked upon the world in which he 
had long lived but had never before seen ! He could see 
the water, the flowers with their beautiful colors, the 
green grass, the blue sky! 

Now he was as other men; he could work and 
support himself ; he would no longer have to sit by the 
wayside and beg from those who passed by. His 
heart was full of gratitude. 

Those who had known him, meeting him upon 
the street, questioned him, and when it was found that 
Jesus had healed him he was taken before the Jewish 
rulers, who endeavored to get him to say Jesus was 
not of God. "The man sharply and justly reproved 
them, and defended his Healer. They became more 
and more angry, reviling him and Jesus, and at last, 
drove him from them ; forbidding him to enter the 
Temple or Synagogue, and the people to speak to, 
or help him." (Weed.) 

"Jesus heard that they had cast him out ; and 
when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou 
believe on the Son of God. 

"He answered and said, Who is he Lord, that 
I might believe on him? 



62 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

"And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen 
him, and it is he that talketh with thee. 

"And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped 
Him." 

Application : Jesus is not on the earth now, but His 
Priesthood is, and by its power those holding it can heal 
us when we are sick, if we have enough faith. This is 
how a little boy in our church was cured : 

Remarkable Case of Healing. 

The following account of a remarkable case of heal- 
ing was translated from the Dutch Star for this maga- 
zine by President Alex. Nibley. 

Little John, the eleven-year-old son of sister H 

S of the Rotterdam branch, had suffered greatly 

for a number of years with his eyes. They were badly 
inflamed and pained him continually. He was slowly 
losing his sight and was unable to attend school longer. 

When, on a certain day in the beginning of last 
August (1906), it was announced in Rotterdam that 
President Joseph F. Smith would be in. the city the 
following day and attend meeting, little John said to his 
mother : "The prophet has the most power of any 
missionary on earth. If you will take me with you to 
meeting and he will look into my eyes I believe they 
will be healed." 

According to his desire he was permitted to accom- 
pany his mother to the meeting, at the close of which 
President Smith moved to the door in order to shake 
hands with the Saints and friends as they passed out 
)f the hall. As the little fellow approached him. led 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 63 

by his mother, and his eyes bandaged with cloths, Pres 
ident Smith took him by the hand and spoke to him 
kindly. He then raised the bandage slightly and looked 
sympathetically into the inflamed eyes, at the same 
time saying something in English which the child could 
not understand. 

The little fellow was satisfied. The prophet had 
acted according to his faith ; and according to his faith 
so did it come to pass with him. Upon reaching home 
he cried out : "Mama, my eyes are well ; I can't feel any 
more pain. I can see fine now, and far, too." 

Since then his sight has been good. He attends 
school again, and one would never think that anything 
had ever ailed his eyes. (Millennial Star, Vol. 69, p. 76.) 



64 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 



LESSON 15. HEALING THE CENTURION'S 
SERVANT 

Text: Luke 7:1-10; Matt. 8:13. 

Reference: Weed's "A Life of Christ for the 
Young/' Chap. 27. 

Aim : Great faith brings great blessings. 

Memory Gem: "As thou hast believed, so be it 
done unto thee." 

Pictures: The Leper, (Bida) ; Healing the Sick, 
(Hofmann). 

These pictures are not connected with the lesson, 
but could be used with a few words of introduction. 
Jesus was constantly healing the sick. Scarcely a day 
passed but He healed some one, and often many were 
brought to Him at once. See the sorrow shown in this 
picture, but notice the hopeful expression in the faces. 
Their sorrow will soon be changed to joy. 

Outline : 

I. Capernaum. 

1. Description of. 

2. "His own city.'' 

II. The Centurion. 

1. His position. 

2. Friend of the Jews. 

3. Sends to Jesus. 

III. The Miracle. 

1. Jesus' answer. 

2. The servant healed. 




Christ Healing the Sick 



Hofmann 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 65 

Lesson Statement: The northern part of the Holy 
Land was called Galilee. Nazareth, where Jesus lived as 
a boy, was here. Here also was a beautiful lake, which 
was called the Sea of Galilee. "When at rest the waters 
are as clear as glass, reflecting the shrubs and flowers on 
the bank, especially in May, when the bright red and 
white oleanders fringe the shores. Above all are num- 
berless birds of brilliant colors and varied forms." 

On the northwestern shore of this beautiful body of 
water was the city of Capernaum — a city made attractive 
by palm, orange, and almond trees, and a great variety 
of many colored flowers. 

Here Jesus made His home with Peter. On the 
Sabbath day He went to the synagogue where He 
taught the people. From Capernaum He went on His 
journey and to it He returned for rest. He was so 
often in Capernaum that it has been called His own 
city. 

In the city of Capernaum there lived a centur- 
ion, or captain, who had charge of the Roman soldiers. 
He was not one of the children of Israel. He came 
from a land where the people worshiped idols, but he 
had respect and reverence for God, whom the Jews 
worshipped. He had built for them a synagogue, one so 
much larger and so much more beautiful than any other 
in the city, that it was called the synagogue. The Jews 
loved him for his kindness and goodness. 

A servant of the centurion "who was dear unto him, 
was sick, and ready to die." 

"And when he heard of Jesus, he sent unto Him the 
elders of the Jews, beseeching Him that He would 
come and heal his servant." 



66 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

Jesus was just returning to the city. Many of His 
disciples, those who loved Him and believed in His 
teachings, lived in Capernaum, and when He returned 
from a journey they met Him. As Jesus walked along 
the streets, followed by the people, the elders of the Jews, 
the centurion's messengers, met Jesus and requested 
Him to come and heal the servant. And they said of the 
centurion that he was a worthy man, "he loveth our na- 
tion, and he hath built us a synagogue." 

"Then Jesus went with them. And when He was 
not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to 
Him. saying unto Him. Lord, trouble not Thyself; for 
I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter under my 
roof : W nerefore neither thought I myself worthy to 
come unto Thee : but say in a word, and my servant 
shall be healed.'" How great the centurion's faith must 
have been when he knew it was not necessary for Jesus 
to even come to the house where his servant was sick ! 
He believed that Jesus had but to command the disease 
to depart as he would command the soldiers under him. 

"Y\ nen Jesus heard these things. He marvelled at 
him, and turned him about, and said unto the people that 
followed Him, I say unto you, I have not found so great 
faith, no, not in Israel." Then He sent this message to 
the centurion, "as thou hast believed, so be it done unto 
thee." "And they that were sent, returning to the house, 
found the servant whole that had been sick." 

Get the children to tell what Jesus meant when He 
said, "as thou hast believed so be it done unto thee." 

What did Jesus sav of the centurion's faith? 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 67 

Application: An incident, proving we have the 
Priesthood in our Church, and that through its power 
the sick are healed, is found in the life of the Prophet. 
While the Saints were in Commerce, later known as 
Nauvoo, almost everyone became ill because of their 
weakened bodies and the disease germs lurking there. 
On July 22, 1839, the Prophet began a marvelous course 
of healing. He blessed a great number and all recovered 
under his hands. One case was especially remarkable. 
Elijah Fordham was very nearly dead — was unconscious 
and had been dying for an hour; every breath was 
thought to be his last. The Prophet visited him and 
commanded him to arise and be made whole. The sick man 
arose, asked for and ate some food and accompanied 
the brethren on their tour of healing. A non-Mormon 
heard of this and requested the Prophet to come and 
cure his twins that were two miles away. The Prophet 
took out his handkerchief and gave it to Wilford Wood- 
ruff, who was later a president of the Church, and told 
him to go and administer to the children, laying the 
handkerchief over their faces as he did it. This was done 
and the children were healed. (See "One Hundred 
Years or Mormonism," page 288, or, "Leaves from My 
Journal," Chap. XIX.) Show the class pictures of 
Joseph Smith and Wilford Woodruff. 



68 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 



LESSON 16. A WOMAN'S FAITH 

Text: Matt. 9:20-22; Mark 5:25-34. 

Aim: We may receive blessings through our own 
faith even though we do not declare it to others. 

Memory Gem : ''Daughter, thy faith hath made thee 
whole." 

Outline : 

I. Jesus on His way to bless the sick. 

1. The throng which followed. 

II. The Woman. 

1. Sick for twelve years. 

2. Tried skill of many physicians. 

3. Spent all her money. 

4. Grew worse. 

III. Her Faith. 

1. What she believed. 

2. What she did. 

IV. The Healing. 

1. Cured instantly. 

2. Jesus'* question. 

3. Jesus' recognition of her faith. 

Point of Contact: We love to talk about people 
who have faith, because they are always made 
happy and are blessed. If we are sick or in trouble 
we may have faith just as strong as the people 
whom we have been talking about the last few Sun- 
days, had. Even though we cannot see Jesus here 
on the earth now, He will know about our faith, and 
if it is strong enough, He will bless us. 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 



69 



Lesson Statement: Tell of Jesus hurrying to 
bless a sweet girl that we shall learn of next 
Sunday. In the crowd that thronged about Jesus 
was a woman who had been sick for twelve years. 
Although she had spent all of her money and 
had been to many doctors, she grew worse. Doctors 
knew a great deal about pain and sickness, but were 
not wise enough to cure her. When she heard of Jesus 
she knew that He could surely cure her. She did not 
get anybody to go for Him ; she did not think it neces- 
sary for Jesus to even bless her or speak to her. She 
knew that if she but touched the hem of His clothing 
she would be healed ! She had very great faith, indeed ! 
She had more faith than the blind man, or the master of 
the sick servant, didn't she? 

She pressed through the crowd that followed Jesus 
and touched the hem of His clothing. She was instantly 
healed ! Jesus knew there was some one in particular 
in the crowd who had faith in Him, and He asked, "Who 
touched my clothes?" Jesus was happy to know that 
she had such faith, and He said, "Daughter, thy faith 
hath made thee whole." 

Application: What cured the sick woman? When 
we are sick what is more sure of curing us than doctors 
or medicines or anything else? 

If we could not call in the elders to bless us and 
were all alone, if our faith was as strong as this 
woman's, we could kneel down and pray and Jesus 
would hear us and know about our faith just the same 
as if He were here. If we know that Jesus can and will 
bless us, we will receive that which we are in need of. 



70 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 



LESSON 17. JESUS RAISES THE DAUGHTER OF 

JAIRUS 

Text: Mark 5:21-44; Matt. 9:18-26; Luke 8:40-56. 

Reference: Weed's "A Life of Christ for the 
Young," XXXI. 

Aim: Jesus has power over death. 

Memory Gem: "Fear not; believe only, and she 
shall be made whole." 

Pictures: Raising the Daughter of Jairus (Hof- 
mann) ; Raising of Jairus' Daughter (Richter). 

Outline : 
T. Jairus. 

1. Ruler of synagogue. 

2. Comes to Jesus. 

3. His petition. 

II. Jesus goes with Jairus. 

1. An incident on the way. 

2. The message. 

3. Jesus' assurance. 

III. The Miracle. 

1. Jesus at Jairus' house, accompanied by Peter, 

James and John. 

2. The sorrowing friends. 

3. Jesus' words. 

4. "Her spirit came again." 

Point of Contact: Has anyone a sister twelve 
years old? Do you not love her very dearly? 
Does not vour mother and father love her dearly? 




Raising the Daughter of Jairus 



Richter 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 71 

She, no doubt, can help your mother wipe the dishes 
or assist with other duties. She can amuse the baby 
and play with you. She certainly makes the home 
cheerful. Today we are going to talk of a little girl, 
just twelve years old, whom Jesus knew and blessed. 

Lesson Statement: Jesus had been on the east- 
ern shores of the Sea of Galilee. When He re- 
turned by ship to Capernaum many people stood 
on the shore to welcome Him. He and His apostles 
and others went to the home of Matthew, where 
a feast was given in His honor. As the guests 
sat around the table, Jesus taught them the beautiful 
truths of the Gospel. 

There lived in the city of Capernaum a ruler 
of the synagogue named Jairus. Jairus had a little 
daughter tw r elve years old. She was the only daughter 
and the light and joy of the home. But on this day, 
when Jesus sat at the feast with His disciples, Jairus' 
daughter was very sick — so sick that Jairus knew that 
she was dying. When he heard that Jesus had returned 
to Capernaum, he hastened to the room where Jesus 
was, and falling at His feet besought Him, saying, 
"My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray 
thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be 
healed ; and she shall live." 

"And Jesus went with him : and much people 
followed Him, and thronged Him." (Review the incident 
contained in verses 25-34.) 

This delay must have seemed long to the anxious 
father. While Jesus yet spoke, there came from the 
ruler of the synagogue's house one who said, "Tljy 



72 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

daughter is dead : why troublest thou the Master any 
further?" 

But Jesus heard the words not intended for His 
ears, and turning to the father He said, "Fear not; 
believe only, and she shall be made whole.'' 

The father's sorrow was changed to rejoicing; for, 
with this blessed assurance from the Master, he knew 
that his little daughter would be brought back to life, 
even though she had died. 

Picture the scene of the sorrow in the home 
when Jesus, with Jairus, Peter, James and John enter. 
To tell of the custom of hired mourners and minstrels 
would detract from the solemnity and beauty of this 
lesson. 

"He taketh the father and the -mother of the damsel, 
and them that were with Him and entereth in where the 
damsel was lying." 

Picture the quiet and peace of the room, the faith 
of the father and mother, and worship and reverence of 
the three apostles, who had seen Jesus raise the dead 
before and knew that He had power over death, but 
were filled with awe as they realized that He was 
indeed the Son of God, who possessed this great power. 

'"And He took the damsel by the hand, and said 
unto her, Damsel, I say unto thee, arise." 

"And her spirit came again, and she arose straight- 
way : and he commanded to give her meat." 

Picture the joy in the home. 

Application: One important feature of the mis- 
sion Jesus had to perform was to make it possible 
for people to rise from the dead, or be resurrected. 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 73 

If it had not been for Jesus this little girl would 
never have lived again. When we died we would 
not have been resurrected but would have remained 
in the grave. Jesus came, and through His death 
made it possible for you and me and all people to 
live again. This little girl was raised by Jesus, because 
of His wonderful power, when she had been dead but 
a very short time. It is necessary for people to die, 
but some day, when the proper time comes, their spirits 
will again come back to their bodies, and they will live. 



74 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

LESSON 18. JESUS RAISES LAZARUS FROM 
THE DEAD 

Text: John 11:1-45. 

Reference: Weed's "A Life of Christ for the 
Young," Chapter LI. 

Aim: Jesus Christ has power over death. 

Memory Gem: '"'I am the resurrection and the life: 
he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall 
he live." 

Pictures: Christ in the Home of Mary and Martha 
(Hofmann.) (See Lesson 29) : Raising of Lazarus 
(Rubens). 

Outline : 

I. Home of Mary and Martha. 

1. The great sorrow. 

II. The Message to Jesus. 

1. Nature of it. 

2. Jesus' reply. 

3. His conversation with the disciples. 

III. Jesus and Martha. 

1. Martha's words of sorrow. 

2. Reply of Jesus. 

IV. Jesus and Mary. 

1. Mary's faith and testimony. 

2. Jesus' sorrow. 

V. At the grave. 

1. The prayer. 

2. The command. 

3. Lazarus restored to life. 




Raising of Lazurus 



Rubens 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 75 

Lesson Statement: We have heard of so many 
wonderful things that Jesus did! Let us see if 
we remember some of them. He healed the blind 
man; He healed the sick servant, even though He 
did not go near him; He healed a woman, who 
had been sick for twelve years, because of her 
faith in just touching His clothing; He raised the 
little daughter of Jairus after she had been sick and 
died. Jesus did many more wonderful miracles of which 
you will some day learn. We have not time in 
Sunday School to tell of all of them. Today we will 
learn of one of the most marvelous acts of His life. 

In the little town of Bethany, a mile or two from 
Jerusalem, lived some very dear friends of Jesus. They 
were Mary and Martha and their brother Lazarus. 
Jesus loved them, and they loved Him. He often went 
to their home where they loved to listen to His teach- 
ings. (Show picture — Jesus, Mary and Martha. Les- 
son 29.) But, while Jesus was about fifty miles away 
in the village of Bethabara, on the other side of Jordan, 
Lazarus became very sick. His sisters feared that he 
would die, and they sent a message to Jesus, saying, 
"Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick." 

The messenger probably traveled on a donkey, 
and it would take him more than a day to get to Beth- 
abara. When he delivered the message Jesus answered, 
"This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of 
God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby." 

The disciples thought that Lazarus would not die 
but be healed. Jesus stayed two days longer and then 
suggested that they go into Judea. The disciples feared 
for His safety, but Jesus said that no one would harm 



76 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

Him until His mission was performed. Jesus said, "Our 
friend Lazarus sleepeth ; but I go, that I may awake him 
out of sleep." The disciples, not understanding, said., 
"Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well." Then Jesus said, 
"Lazarus is dead." 

The aim of the lesson is well brought out in verse 
15. "I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to 
the intent ye may believe." If Jesus had been there 
would Lazarus have died ? 

Picture the home of the sisters, the sorrow, the 
friends w T ho came to comfort them, then Martha's going 
out to meet Jesus. 

Lazarus had been buried four days. Martha's 
words, "Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother 
had not died," show that she recognized Jesus' power 
and her great faith is manifested when she said, "But 
I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of 
God, God will give it thee." Jesus told her that Lazarus 
should rise again. Martha said, "I know that he shall 
rise again in the resurrection at the last day." Jesus 
said unto her, "I am the resurrection, and the life; he 
that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he 
live." 

Tell how Martha w r ent for Mary; how Mary 
arose quickly and came unto Him ; how the friends, 
believing she had gone to weep at the grave, followed 
her. Mary said, as Martha did, "Lord, if thou hadst 
been here my brother had not died." Tell of Jesus' 
sorrow when He saw those w T hom He loved in trouble. 

Describe their going to the cave tomb, the grave 
with a stone before the door. Jesus bade them take 
the stone away. Martha spoke of the change in her 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 77 

brother's body, for he had been dead four days, but 
Jesus reproved her. "Said I not unto thee, that, if 
thou wouldst believe, thou shouldst see the glory of 
God?" 

When the stone was taken away, Jesus prayed say- 
ing: "Father, I thank Thee that thou hast heard 
me. And I know that thou hearest me always." Then 
He cried with a loud voice, "Lazarus, come forth." 
And the dead obeyed and came forth to begin life 
anew. 

Show the picture : The Raising of Lazarus (Ru- 
bens). 

Get the pupils to observe the joy and worship in 
the faces of the sisters and the apostles. 

"And many of the Jews which came to Mary, and 
had seen the things which Jesus did, believed on Him." 

Application: Was this not a wonderful miracle? 
Lazarus had not only died but had been buried, 
and still Jesus had power over death. Just as sure 
as Lazarus was raised from the dead, so shall we be, 
only we will then live forever. Perhaps some of us 
have brothers or sisters or other relatives or friends, 
who have died, and we want to see them again, oh, so 
badly ! And just think of it ! Some day we shall see them 
with their resurrected bodies just as they used to have, 
only more beautiful ! Probably we shall not see them for 
a long, long time, but we know that at the proper time 
we shall be with them again and be so happy ! All this 
happiness we will owe to Jesus. This is what He 
meant when He said, "I am the resurrection and the 
life : he that believeth in me, though He were dead, yet 
shall He live." 



78 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 



LESSON 19. THE LOST SHEEP 

Text: Luke 15:1-10. 

Reference: Weed's "A Life of Christ for the 
Young," Chap. XLVIII. 

Aim: The Lord watches over His children: there is 
rejoicing in Heaven over every one who repents. 

Memory Gem: "The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall 
not want." 

Pictures: The Lost Lamb; The Good Shepherd 
(Plockhorst). 

Outline : 

I. The Shepherd of Palestine. 

1. Dress. 

2. Habits. 

3. Care of flock. 

II. The Lost Lamb. 

1. Strays from flock. 

2. Dangers. 

3. Loneliness. 

4. Bleatings. 

5. The shepherd's anxiety. 

6. The shepherd's search. 

7. Found. 

a. Rejoicing. 

III. The Lord's Lambs. 

1. Christ, the Shepherd. 

2. How cared for. 

3. Dangers to lost one. 




The Good Shepherd 



Plockhorst 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 79 

4. The Lord's anxiety over lost ones. 

5. Rejoicing when lost is found. 

6. Blessing to the one who repents. 

Point of Contact, and Lesson Statement: That 
the children may fully appreciate this story, they 
must be told of the shepherds of Palestine. Here 
we are used to the sight of a large flock of sheep driven 
by the shepherd and the dogs. The shepherds of the 
East have small flocks. They lead the sheep instead 
of driving them. The sheep know the shepherd's voice ; 
they come at his call, stop, lie down or huddle together 
as he directs. At birth the lamb becomes the shepherd's 
charge ; his to name and train ; his to guard from harm. 

The sheep are surrounded by the loving, watchful 
care of the shepherd from day to day. He leads them 
to the green pastures and sees that no harm comes to 
them while feeding. He knows where fresh, sweet water 
is to be found, and here he takes his charges to drink. 

At night he leads them to the sheep fold. At the 
door of the fold he stands with his crook and as the sheep 
pass in, one by one, he inspects each. Some are bruised 
and scratched. These receive his special care. If one 
little lamb has strayed during the day, and has not been 
missed, the loss is known now, when the sheep are 
brought to the sheepfold for the night. 

Tell the story of the little lamb straying from 
the flock, lost on the mountain side, scratched and torn 
by the thorns, and in danger; of the shepherd's anxiety, 
his search, and the rejoicing and happiness when the 
lost lamb is found. 



80 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

Compare Jesus' care for us to the care of the 
shepherd for his sheep. When we sin we are like the 
lost lamb — we stray away from His care ; but when we 
repent we are welcome back to the fold. 

Application: There are a number of smaller folds 
in this great big world-fold of Jesus. We have a 
tiny fold right here in our class. This tiny fold be- 
longs to a larger one — the Sunday School ; the Sun- 
day School to the Ward, etc. If you do not come 
to Sunday School, you are straying away from the 
fold. But remember that your teachers are always 
glad to have you come back. If you should not 
come back for a long time you might forget about 
Jesus, the Good Shepherd, and then you would be like 
the little lost lamb and Jesus would feel very sorry. 
Never be afraid to come back to Jesus' fold, because that 
is the only way to make Him happy again. Let us all 
try to be good, obedient, little lambs and never get lost. 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 81 



LESSON 20. THE SOWER 

Text: Matt. 13:1-23. Mark 4:1-20. Luke 8:1-15. 

Aim: The Lord requires that we be doers of the 
word, not only hearers. 

Memory Gem: "Whatsoever a man soweth, that 
shall he also reap." 

Pictures: Christ Teaching from a Boat (Hofmann) ; 
The Sower (Millet). 

Outline : 

I. Jesus' Teaching from a Boat. 

1. The multitude. 

2. The parable. 

II. His Teaching to the Disciples. 

1. Their questions. 

2. His explanation of the parable. 

Point of Contact: What does the farmer do in the 
spring? What comes from these seeds the farmers 
sow? How many of you are going to have a flower 
garden? What did you have in your garden, last year? 
Tell how you made your garden. From each tiny seed 
you got many pretty flowers. Did you get as many as 
ten flowers for one seed? or fifty flowers? or a hundred 
flowers? If you got one hundred flowers for each seed, 
that would be a hundred fold. If some of your seeds had 
fallen on the sidewalk, would they have grown? What 
would have happened to them? If they had fallen in 
among many weeds? 

Show "The Sower." 



PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

Lesson Statement: At the time Jesus lived, 
the farmer took his seeds and walked over his 
field and planted it as this man is planting it. So 
when Jesus said, "Behold, a sower went forth to sow/' 
the people would think of a man like this. 

One day Jesus went out of the house and sat 
by the seaside, but as usual a great many people began 
to gather about Him, so that He went into a ship, and 
while the people stood or sat about on the shores Jesus 
began to teach them from the ship. He told them this 
story : 

"Behold, a sower went forth to sow; and when he 
sowed, some seeds fell by the wayside, and the fowls 
came and devoured them : Some fell upon stony places, 
where they had not much earth * * * and when the 
sun was up, * * * they withered away. Some fell 
among thorns, and the thorns sprung up and choked 
them. But others fell into good ground, and brought 
forth fruit, some an hundred fold, some sixty fold and 
some thirty fold." 

W 'hen the multitude had gone away and Jesus 
was alone with His disciples, some of the disciples asked 
Jesus why He spoke to the people in parables : why He 
told the people a story instead of explaining the beauti- 
ful truths of the Gospel, as He did to them : and Jesus 
told them it was because they could not understand the 
things of the kingdom of Heaven as the disciples could. 
He then explained the meaning of the story or parable of 
the sower to them. 

Application : Any one who teaches the word of God 
is like a sower. He is sowing or planting words of truth. 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 83 

If the one who listens only hears the word and does not 
do it the words fall upon his heart as the seeds fell upon 
stony or weedy places. The words of truth are soon 
forgotten and he is little benefitted. But he who not 
only hears the words of truth but remembers them and 
does what he has been told, lives the truth in his life, 
receives the seed upon good ground and it brings forth 
a hundred fold. 

Which would you rather be? 

In what way can you show that you receive the 
seed upon good ground? 

Bring out from the children that they must be 
baptized when eight years old ; they should come to 
Sunday School, Primary and Religion class and that 
they should not only remember their lessons, but should 
make application of them in their own lives. We have 
learned of faith. When we are sick we should have 
faith and call in the elders. If we have been talking of 
returning good for evil, w r e should remember and be 
kind to those who are unkind to us, etc., etc. 



84 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 



LESSON 21. THE GOOD SAMARITAN 

Text: Luke 10:25-37. 

Reference : "Weed's "A Life of Christ for the Young," 
Chapter XLVIL 

Aim : In order to gain eternal life we should love 
and assist our fellowmen. 

Memory Gem : ''Thou shalt love thy neighbor as 
thyself." 

Picture: The Good Samaritan (Siemenroth). 

Outline : 
I. The conversation. 

1. The lawyer's question. 

2. Jesus' answer. 

3. Who is my neighbor? 
II. The parable. 

1. The road from Jerusalem to Jericho. 

2. Traveler fell among thieves. 

3. The priest. 

4. The Levite. 

5. The good Samaritan. 
III. The conversation. 

1. Jesus' inquiry. 

2. The lawyer's answer. 

3. "Go and do thou likewise." 

Point of Contact: Ask the children about people of 
different nationalities — the man at the peanut stand, 
Chinamen, Japanese, etc. Jesus has told us how to treat 
all of God's children. 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 85 

Lesson Statement: One day, as Jesus was journey- 
ing towards Jerusalem, accompanied, as usual, by His 
disciples, a lawyer came to Him. This man did not come 
to Jesus because he wished to learn. He came to ask 
Him questions, hoping that in answering He would say 
something for which He might be accused. 

The lawyer said to Him, "Master, what shall I do to 
inherit eternal life?" 

Jesus asked him what was written. The lawyer 
answered, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy 
heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, 
and with all thy mind ; and thy neighbor as thyself." 
Jesus told him that if he did this he would gain eternal 
life. Then the man asked Jesus, "Who is my neighbor?" 
and Jesus told the story. 

Jericho is about fifteen miles northeast of Jeru- 
salem. The road is very lonely, leading through a rocky 
gorge. It is a very dangerous region for the traveler, 
as robber bands are constantly on the watch. 

Tell the story, enlarging upon the text, and make 
each incident stand out. 

Jesus then asked the lawyer, "Which now of 
these three thinkest thou was neighbor unto him that 
fell among the thieves?" Which one was? The Samari- 
tan treated the wounded man as he himself would like 
to have been treated. He was kind to him, even though 
a stranger. He remembered the command, "Thou shalt 
love thy neighbor as thyself." 

Jesus said, "Go and do thou likewise." What did he 
mean? 



86 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

Application: Who is our neighbor? How should 
we treat our neighbors? Get the children to feel that it 
is wrong to tease or be unkind to Chinamen or any who 
are unfortunate — that we should help them. 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 87 



LESSON 22. FEEDING THE FIVE THOUSAND 

Text: Matt. 14:13-21; John 6:1-14; Mark 6:32-44; 
Luke 9:10-17. 

Reference : Weed's "A Life of Christ for the Young," 
XXXIV, XXV. 

Aim: The Lord's care is shown in temporal things as 
well as in spiritual. 

Memory Gem: "Then He took the five loaves and 
the two fishes and looking up to heaven He blessed and 
brake." 

Picture: Feeding the Multitude (Murillo). 

Outline : 

I. The Multitude. 

1. Jesus in a lonely place. 

2. Multitude follow Him. 

3. He heals the sick. 

4. He teaches the people. (Mark 6:34). 

II. The Miracle. 

1. The Apostles' request. 

2. Jesus' commands. 

3. Feeding the multitude. 

III. Divinity of Jesus. 

1. Recognized by the multitude. 

2. Desire to make Him king. 

Point of Contact, and Lesson Statement: In our 

last few lessons we have learned some of the things 
Jesus taught to enable us to gain eternal life and 



PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 



be happy after we die. Jesus also wants us to be happy 
and healthy while we live on this earth. Today we will 
learn of what Jesus did for a crowd of hungry people. 

The Twelve Apostles had not always been with 
Jesus. He sent them out into other cities to preach to the 
people. When they returned from their missionary 
labors, they ''gathered themselves together unto Jesus, 
and told Him all things, both what they had done and 
what they had taught." "And He said unto them, Come 
ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest awhile.'' 
So, entering a ship, they crossed the lake to the eastern 
shore. 

On this shore of the lake was an uninhabited plain 
covered with grass and dotted with flowers. From the 
plain rose green hills, and towering above these could be 
seen the snowy ridge of Mt. Hermon. To one of these 
grassy hills the Savior and His Apostles retired for peace 
and rest. So many people constantly came to them that 
"they had no leisure so much as to eat." 

But they were not to remain long at rest, for below 
them, on the plain, a great crowd of people began to 
gather. Quietly as had been their departure from tho 
other side, the people saw them, and they ran on foot 
around the lake. As they passed through other villages 
many more joined them until there was a mighty throng. 
They wandered about on the plain "as sheep not having 
a shepherd." And when Jesus, from a quiet peaceful 
hillside, looked down upon them, He "was moved with 
compassion toward them." He could not rest when the 
people needed Him. So, He arose and went down the 
hillside to the plain, and "received them, and spake unto 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 89 

them of the Kingdom of God. and healed them that had 
need of healing." 

"Hour after hour passed as the wearied but charmed 
throng listened to the voice of the Teacher and rejoiced 
in the works of the Healer." 

''And when it was evening, His disciples came to 
Him, saying, This is a desert place, and the time is now 
past ; send the multitude away, that they may go into 
the villages, and buy themselves bread : for they have 
nothing to eat.'' 

"But Jesus said unto them : They need not depart ; 
give ye them to eat." But although the Apostles had 
been with Jesus so long, had seen His power made mani- 
fest so often, they did not understand what He meant. 
And they asked, "Shall we go and buy bread and give 
them to eat?" But Jesus said unto them, ''How many 
loaves have ye? Go and see." 

Andrew, one of Apostles, said, "There is a lad here, 
which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes ; 
but what are they among so many?" 

The fishes were small dried fish which were eaten 
with bread. The lad was probably a boy who attended 
Jesus and the Apostles, carrying their provisions for them 
and rendering other service. 

Jesus commanded the Apostles to have the people 
sit down by fifties and by hundreds. When all were 
seated in an orderly manner upon the green grass, Jesus 
"took the five loaves and the two fishes, and looking up 
to heaven, He blessed, and brake : and gave the loaves to 
His disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. And 
likewise of the fishes as much as thev would." 



90 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

As the disciples, obeying Jesus' command, passed 
the food to the multitude, it failed not but increased until 
all that multitude, over five thousand people, had been 
fed, "and they took up the fragments that remained, 
twelve baskets full.'' 

"Then those men, when they had seen the mira- 
cle that Jesus did, said, This is of a truth a prophet that 
should come into the world. 

"When Jesus therefore perceived that they would 
come and take Him by force, to make Him a king, He de- 
parted again into a mountain Himself alone." 

The desire of the people to make Him a king only 
saddened Him. The people believed in Him, but they did 
not understand Him when He said, "My kingdom is not 
of this world." His mission was something greater, 
nobler than to be an earthly king, but there were few 
whose hearts were open to receive Him. 

Application: Jesus blesses us today and makes us 
happy and healthy. We ask the blessing on our food, 
as Jesus did over the loaves and fishes, so that it will 
do our bodies the good they need. 

Jesus has also told us what is good for us to eat 
and what will harm us. We call it the "Word of Wis- 
dom." What are some of the things that we should never 
touch? What should we eat just a little of? If we re- 
member and keep the Word of Wisdom we shall have 
healthy bodies and bright minds. 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST g] 



LESSON 23. WALKING ON THE WATER 

Text: Matt. 14:22-33. 

Reference : Weed's "A Life of Christ for the Young," 
Chapter XXXVI. 

Aim: All things are possible to him that believeth. 

Memory Gem: "O thou of little faith, wherefore 
didst thou doubt?" 

Picture: "Christ Walking on the Water" (Plock- 
horst). 

Outline : 

I. Apostles on the Sea. 

1. The storm. 

2. Jesus goes to them. 

II. Peter Walks on the Sea. 

1. Peter's request. 

2. His fear. 

3. Jesus' reply. 

III. The People Worship Him. 

1. "Of a truth thou art the Son of God." 

Point of Contact: If you throw a cork on some 
water, does it float or sink? If you throw a rock 
on water what happens to it? Why does the rock 
sink? What happens to anything heavy, if thrown 
on water? Boats and ships stay on top because 
they have been especially made to float. Nearly 
everything else that is heavy will not stay on top, but 
sinks in fresh water. 



92 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

Lesson Statement: One time Jesus' apostles saw 
something wonderful on the water. Let me tell you 
about it. 

After the people wished to make Jesus their 
king, He went into the mountain, where He spent the 
greater part of the night in prayer. 

His disciples were in a ship on the sea. During the 
night a strong wind began to blow, the sea grew very 
rough, and the ship was tossed by the waves, and they 
became afraid. As the waves rolled, and the ship rocked 
from side to side they would wish for the Master's pres- 
ence, but they did not know that He was watching over 
them alone on the land, "and He saw them toiling in 
rowing." 

Some time between three and six o'clock in the morn- 
ing, or "the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto 
them, walking on the sea." 

He was walking right on top of the water just as 
smoothly and easily as we walk on the ground. The 
apostles were very much afraid. They thought it must 
be a spirit and they cried out for fear. Then Jesus 
spoke to them and said, "Be of good cheer; it is I ; be not 
afraid." 

Peter wished to walk from the ship to Jesus 
and said, "Lord, if it be Thou, bid me to come unto 
Thee," and Jesus said, "Come." Peter thought he had faith 
enough to walk on the water just as Jesus was doing 
He had not gone far when he saw the rough waves 
around him and heard the boisterous winds and then he 
grew afraid and started to sink. He cried to Jesus to 
save him and Jesus stretched forth His hand and caught 





Jesus Walking on the Water 



Ploekhorst 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 93 

him. Jesus said to Peter, "O thou of little faith, where- 
fore didst thou doubt?" If Peter had had more faith he 
would not have started to sink. He had strong faith at 
first but the storm made him doubt and then he could 
no longer walk on the water. 

After Jesus and Peter got in the ship the winds 
ceased and the sea was calm. They that were in the ship 
worshipped Jesus saying "Of a truth Thou art the Son 
of God." 

Application: Jesus could do anything, he had 
such great power, and today we have found out that 
it would have been possible for the apostles to 
to do some of those same things if their faith were 
strong enough. Sometimes we say our prayers 
and ask for a blessing we want very badly, or 
somebody is sick and we ask the elders to bless them. 
Perhaps the Lord does not answer our prayers or heal 
our loved ones, and it is just because we did not have 
faith strong enough. Maybe the doctor has told us the 
loved one is too sick to get well, and even after the elders 
have blessed the afflicted one, we keep remembering 
how sick he is and we become afraid, as Peter did, and 
forget that no matter what the trouble is or how bad it 
is, the Lord can grant our desire. Anything is possible 
with the Lord, and He will bless us for our good if we 
ask Him with enough faith. 



94 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 



LESSON 24. STILLING THE TEMPEST 

Text: Matt. 8:23-27; Mark 4:35-41 ; Luke 8:22-26. 

Reference : Weed's "A Life of Christ for the Young," 
Chapter XXX. 

Aim: Thro' faith we may be protected from danger. 

Memory Gem: "What manner of Man is this that 
even the wind and the sea obey Him!" 

Picture: "Christ Stilling the Tempest" (Dore). 

Outline : 

I. The Sea of Galilee. 

1. Calm. 

a. Beauties of the sea. 

b. People on the shore. 

c. Jesus teaches them from the ship. 

d. Ship launched. 

2. Storm. 

a. Jesus asleep. 

b. Disciples fearful. 

II. Jesus' Power Manifest. 

1. The miracle. 

2. The worship. 

Point of Contact: Have you ever looked into the 
water of a lake when it is perfectly still? It reminds us 
of a mirror. We can see our faces in it. We can see 
the trees and rocks on the bank. How does that same 
lake look when a storm is raging? Then the waters 
are so restless they appear angry. They foam and roll 
and the mirror is changed to a frothing sea of white • 




Stilling the Tempest 



Dore 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 95 

caps. How would you feel if you were sailing on such 
a lake? 

Lesson Statement: Wherever a strong contrast 
can be presented, the children get more vivid mind 
pictures. In this lesson the calm, beautiful sea, with 
only the quiet swish, swish of the waves on the shore, 
as Jesus sat in the ship and talked to the people on the 
land, is a strong contrast to the sea when the great 
tempest arose, and the waves beat into the ship. And 
again when the peace followed the storm. 

Draw a vivid picture of the beauties of the sea with 
Jesus in the ship teaching them (Mark 4:1). 

He talked to them for many hours ; then, when the 
crowd left, He continued to teach His disciples. When 
evening came a great multitude gathered again, but Jesus 
said to His disciples, "Let us pass over unto the other 
side/' Perhaps the people had heard all that it was 
well for them to hear for that day, and besides Jesus 
was very tired and needed rest (Mark 4:36). 

Picture Jesus' peaceful sleep "on a pillow," the sud- 
den breaking of the storm, the excitement, confusion, and 
fear of the others in the ship, as He slept quietly on, 
taking a well-earned rest. 

And His disciples came to Him, and awoke Him, 
saying, "Master, carest thou not that we perish?" 

We can think of Llim, as He opened His eyes and 
looked up to them, as still, calm and peaceful, not dis- 
turbed by the commotion around Him, He gently re- 
buked them, as He lay looking up at them. "Why are ye 
fearful, O ye of little faith?" 



96 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

Picture Jesus as "He arose, and rebuked the wind, 
and said unto the sea, Peace, be still." 

Those noisy winds heard that gentle voice ! 

Those angry waves were quieted by His command ! 

Again draw the contrasted picture of the change that 
took place. 

The apostles wondered at this miracle and said to 
one another, "What manner of man is this, that even the 
wind and the sea obey Him !" 

Application: Have you ever been in a dangerous 
storm? In a run-away? In a fire? In any other 
danger? Are you afraid when alone, or in the dark? 
Who is always able to see you? What could you do for 
safety? 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 97 



LESSON 25. THE WOMAN OF SAMARIA 

Text: John 4:1-42. 

Reference: Weed's "A Life of Christ for the Young," 
Chapter XVIII. 

Aim: Good often comes from kindness to the un- 
popular or sinful. 

Memory Gem: Love your enemies, do good to them 
that hate you. 

Picture: Jesus and the Woman of Samaria (Hof- 
mann). 

• Outline : 

I. At the Well. 

1. Jesus. 

2. The woman. 

3. The conversation. 

II. Preaching the Gospel to the Samaritans. 

1. The woman returns to the city. 

2. The Samaritans go to Jesus. 

3. He tarries with them two days. 

Point of Contact: Can you remember having seen 
a boy or girl act kindly to another person who was not 
liked? Perhaps there is a boy or girl whom your 
school-mates do not wish to play with. Jesus wants 
us to be kind to everybody, even though that person 
may have done wrong. Would you like to hear how 
Jesus was kind to a despised, sinful woman? 

Lesson Statement: Jesus left Judea, and journeyed 
north to Galilee. On the way He must go through 



98 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

Samaria. In Samaria lived a people who were called 
Samaritans. Their religious beliefs and customs were 
very different from those of the Jews. The Jews 
looked down upon the Samaritans and had little to do 
with them. 

On the road in Samaria, near the principal city, was 
a well to which the people came to draw water. It was 
called Jacob's well. At about noon, as Jesus journeyed 
from Judea to Galilee, He came to this well. Tired and 
thirsty, He seated Himself upon the stone wall surround- 
ing- it. His apostles had gone into the city to buy food, 
so He was alone. 

He was not long alone, however. A woman of 
Samaria came to the well with her water jar to draw 
water. (John 4:7-14.) 

Speak of the thirst of the body and the thirst of the 
spirit. The gospel which Jesus taught quenches the 
thirst of the spirit; it gives peace and joy to those who 
obey its teachings, not only for this life, but in the life 
hereafter. So Jesus said to the woman, "The water that 
I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing 
up into everlasting life." Then the woman said unto 
Him, "Sir, give me this water." But when by His an- 
swer He showed that He knew her past life, she thought 
of Him not only as a great teacher, but as a prophet of 
God, and began to ask Him questions. Verses 25 and 26. 

The apostles, returning, marvelled that He talked to 
the Samaritan woman. They brought Him food, saying: 
"Master, eat." But He said unto them : "I have meat 
to eat that ye know not of." In the joy of His ministry ; 
in giving the gospel truths, the food of the spirit, to 




Jesus and the Woman of Samaria 



Hofmann 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 99 

others, His own bodily weariness and thirst were for- 
gotten. 

Unmindful of her errand at the well, the woman 
left her water pots and hastened to the city to bear the 
glad news which she had received. Many of the Samari- 
tans went to Jesus to hear His words, and "they be- 
sought Him that He would tarry with them." So, for 
two days He stayed with them, teaching them the 
beautiful truths of the Gospel ; and many believed when 
they heard His words. (Verse 42.) 

Application: What a great deal of good came from 
Jesus' act of kindness to the despised woman ! He 
gave her the greatest gift in the world — the gift of 
the Gospel ! Not only did she receive it, but many of 
her people also were blessed and believed. If Jesus, the 
greatest man that ever lived, could speak to and be 
kind to the disliked, even sinful people, should we not 
also be kind to our playmates who are not liked? We 
should even be kind and help teach what is right to 
those who are naughty and mean. Perhaps they wil 1 
repent and be good. 



100 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 



LESSON 26. JESUS AND NICODEMUS 

Text: John 3.:1-16. 

Aim: Without baptism we cannot enter the King- 
dom of God. 

Memory Gem: "Verily, verily I say unto thee, ex- 
cept a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot 
enter into the Kingdom of God." 

Picture : "Jesus and Nicodemus." 

Outline : 

I. Nicodemus. 

1. Who he was. 

2. His associates. 

3. Reasons for seeking Jesus. 

II. The Interview. 

1. Time. 

2. Reasons for coming at night. 

3. The inquiry of Nicodemus. 

III. The Ordinance — Baptism. 

1. Explained in the answer of Jesus. 

2. Mode. 

3. Necessity. 

Point of Contact: Have a talk about advancing 
from one grade in the public schools to another. For 
instance, if most of the children in your class were in 
the second grade at the beginning of the school year, 
ask them what they had to do before entering that 
grade. They had to go through the first grade and get 




Jesus and Nicodemus 



Artist Unknown 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 101 

a certificate of promotion to entitle them to advance. 
They had to obey the rules of the school. 

How many want to belong to the Kingdom of 
Heaven? Who will be the King? There are certain 
laws every one must obey to gain admittance to the 
Kingdom of Heaven. What must we all do before we 
can enter? There was a man in Jerusalem who did not 
know as much about it as we do. He did not know that 
he would first have to be baptized. Would you like to 
hear about him? 

Lesson Statement: Jesus was in Jerusalem at the 
time of the Feast of the Passover. He had been in the 
Temple teaching the people, and many believed in Him. 
But most of the rulers of the Jews hated Jesus and 
tried to find something against Him. But one of these 
rulers, who was named Nicodemus, believed in Jesus. 
He was honest and wished to know the truth, but 
he was timid and he knew that his associates would 
condemn him if they knew that he sought Jesus. 

Draw a picture of Nicodemus going through the 
streets at night ; of his meeting with Jesus, perhaps upon 
the roof of one of the low square houses. Repeat Nicode- 
mus' remark, showing that he believed in Jesus. But 
Jesus, wishing him to understand that only to believe 
was not enough, explained the ordinances of baptism and 
the laying on the hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. 

In giving this to the children the teacher has an op- 
portunity to introduce two or three times the verse to 
be memorized, so that when she has given the lesson, 
pupils are familiar with the verse, and will learn it with 
few repetitions. 



102 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

Application: Review Lesson 8, bringing out the 
correct mode of baptism, also Jesus' example. 

The age for the baptism of children and the confirma- 
tion which follows should be dwelt upon. 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 103 



LESSON 27. JESUS AND JOHN BAPTIZING 

Text : John 3 :22-26 ; 4 :2. 

Aim: Those possessing the Spirit of God acknowl- 
edge authority. 

This lesson should give the child some understand- 
ing of Priesthood, God's authority on earth, and help to 
make him respect those who hold it. 

Memory Gem : "A man can receive nothing, except 
it be given him from heaven." 

Outline : 

I. Baptism. 

1. Of water. 

a. Significance. 

b. Performed by John. 

c. Performed by the disciples of Jesus. 

2. Of the Holy Ghost. 

a. Significance. 

II. People are drawn to Jesus. 

1. Effect upon Jews. 

2. Effect upon John. 

III. John's humility and rejoicing. 

1. Acknowledges authority. 

2. My joy therefore is fulfilled. 

3. Bears testimony of Jesus' divinity. 

Point of Contact: Which of the children can tell 
who is the president of the United States? Would it 
not be wonderful to be the president of the United 



104 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

States? I believe every boy here would like to be. The 
president stands at the head of all Americans. All 
honor and respect him. There are other men who are 
placed over us in power, or authority, who are not 
so high as the president. Who can you think of? 
(Children may know of the governor, or mayor. 
Likely they will know of their public school principal. 
If school is not in the United States, the teacher should 
adapt this lesson to her locality.) All of these people 
have been chosen by men. 

Lesson Statement: There are some men who have 
been chosen by the Lord to fill positions. Would it 
not be Avonderful to be thought good enough by the 
Lord to fill important positions for Him? How many 
would like to be chosen by Him, when you grow up, to 
do some work? 

John the Baptist, you remember, had been chosen 
when Jesus was on the earth, to do a certain work. He 
was a great man. We will find out today how he honored 
the authority of God, or His priesthood. 

As Jesus had told Nicodemus that it was neces- 
sary for him to be baptized, so He told all the people to 
whom He preached. Jesus preached the gospel in Judea, 
and many people listened to His words, and many were 
baptized by water in the rivers or the lakes. The apos- 
tles, who held the priesthood of God, who had been 
given this authority, took them to the water's edge, and 
then buried them under the water, and so being baptized 
by one having authority, they were "born again" as Jesus 
had said. Those who were baptized were then confirmed 
members of the Church of Christ. They received the 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 105 

gift of the Holy Ghost and so were "born of the spirit." 

Repeat Jesus' words to Nicodemus. 

John the Baptist was also preaching in the little 
village of ^Enon, in Samaria. Some Jews who had seen 
the crowds which followed Jesus, went to John and said, 
"Rabbi, He that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom 
thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all 
men come to Him." 

They thought that this would anger John and make 
him jealous. But they were entirely mistaken. He re- 
joiced that people believed in Jesus, and listened to His 
teachings. 

Repeat verse 27. Tell the children that John 
referred to the authority, the priesthood that had been 
given him that he might perform his mission on earth. 
He rejoiced in acknowledging the higher authority of 
Jesus, and testified to the people that Jesus was the 
Christ, the Son of God, and Redeemer of the world. And 
he said unto them : "He that believeth on the Son hath 
everlasting life." 

Application: Who stands at the head, or holds the 
highest authority in the Sunday School? In the Ward? 
In the Church? All of these men have been chosen to 
fill these positions for our Heavenly Father. They have 
a number of helpers and all hold the holy priesthood. 
How can we show that we respect those who hold the 
priesthood? 



106 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

LESSON 28. JESUS BLESSES LITTLE 
CHILDREN 

Texts: Matt. 18:1-10; Mark 10:13-16; Luke 9:46-48. 

Reference : Weed's "A Life of Christ for the Young," 
Chapter LII. 

Aim: Purity of soul leads to Christ. 

Songs : "Little Lambs so White and Fair ;" "I Think 
When I Read that Sweet Story of Old," Primary Song 
Book, No. 11; "Let the Little Children Come," Primary 
Song Book, No. 17. 

Pictures: "Christ Blessing Little Children" (Plock- 
horst and Hofmann). 

Memory Gem: Suffer the little children to come 
unto me, and forbid them not : for of such is the king- 
dom of God." 

Outline : 
I. The Disciples' question. 

1. What called it forth. 

2. What it revealed concerning their thoughts. 
IT. The Saviors' answer. 

1. The lesson of the little child. 

(a) Purity, trust, humility, gentleness, obe- 
dience, love. 
TIL Christ blesses little children. 

1. Children brought to the Savior. 

2. His rebuke to the disciples. 

3. The blessing. 

Point of Contact and Lesson Statement: If 
Jesus were on the earth today, would it not be 




Christ Blessing Little Children 



Plockhorst 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 107 

glorious to see Him? What if we could hear Him speak! 
What if we could touch Him ! What if He had laid His 
hands upon our heads and blessed us ! What if He had 
healed us when we were sick! We read in the Bible of 
people who really did see Him and hear Him and were 
blessed by Him. 

Review briefly the kindness of Jesus in relieving the 
sufferings of the people, raising the dead, etc.,, where 
older people are concerned. Then, in the midst of His 
busy ministering and preaching, He stopped to love and 
bless little children and teach the beautiful lesson through 
it. 

Describe the mothers coming from far and near. 
Here is a good opportunity for good picture study : 
mothers anxiously awaiting their turn ; love and trust of 
mothers ; confidence of children as shown by the small 
child on His knee. Even the smallest hadn't the fear or 
timidity usually manifested toward a stranger. 

Tell of the love and care of our earthly parents as 
God's helpers in caring for His little children. 

Application: Jesus loves the children, especially, 
because they are pure and without sin. He said, "Suffer 
(which means let) little children," etc. If, as we grow 
up to be men and women, we still remain pure and sin- 
less, gentle and obedient, we shall some day see Jesus 
and our Heavenly Father. Not only shall we see Them, 
but we shall live with Them. 



108 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 



LESSON 29. MARY AND MARTHA 

Text: Luke 10:38-42; John 12:1-18; Mark 14:3-9: 
Matt. 26:6-13. 

Reference : Weed's "A Life of Christ for the Young," 
Chapters LII and LVL 

Aim: The Lord rejoices in those who seek first His 
kingdom. 

Memory Gem: "Seek ye first the kingdom of God 
and His righteousness : and all these things shall be added 
unto you." 

Pictures: Christ in the Home of Mary and Martha," 
"Mary Anointing Jesus' Feet" (Hofmann). 

Outline : 

I. The home in Bethany. 

1. Its occupants. 

2. Its likely housekeeper. 

3. Its frequent visitor. 

II. Visit of Jesus. 

1. How received. 

2. What Martha did for Him. 

3. What Mary did for Him. 

4. Martha's complaint. 

III. Jesus' answer. 

IV. His last visit to Bethany. 
1. When made. 

V. The entertainment. 

1. Why given. 

2. Guests present. 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 109 

VI. The anointing. 

1. What with. 

2. By whom. 

3. Reason. 

4. Cost— 300 pence or about $50.00. 

VII. The protest. 

1. By whom. 

2. What prompted it. 

VIII. Acceptance by Jesus. 

1. Mary's act approved. 

2. Judas rebuked. 

Point of Contact: What boy has ever had so many 
chores to do that he could not go and play ball or 
marbles? Couldn't you just get the play in some way? 
Can't you girls always find time to care for dolls? 
Isn't there always time to spend your nickels at the 
store or picture show? 

Have you ever been so busy with work or play that 
you could not go to Religion Class, Primary or Sunday 
School? 

Jesus taught us what duties are most important. 

Lesson Statement: In the little village of Bethany, 
about three miles from Jerusalem, there lived a brother 
and two sisters who loved Jesus very dearly. Lazarus 
was the brother whom Jesus raised from the dead, and 
Mary and Martha were the sisters. 

Their's was a happy little home ; Martha was prob- 
ably the housekeeper. She had many cares and troubles 
for no doubt she wanted the house kept very clean, and 
she had plenty of good things to eat in it. 



HO PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

Often, when Jesus was in Jerusalem, He went to 
visit these loved friends in Bethany. They always wel- 
comed Him and did all they could for His comfort. 

Once when He was attending the feast in Jerusalem, 
He visited this little home. How glad Mary and Martha 
were to see Him ! 

Martha at once busied herself to prepare something 
tempting to eat and to make the table look nice. Mary 
sat at Jesus' feet and listened while He talked. Jesus 
always had so many good things to tell those who wanted 
to learn. He was the most wonderful teacher who ever 
lived. Mary just wanted to keep on listening and did not 
once remember that her sister was so busy with her meal. 
Both sisters loved Jesus. Each showed it in her own 
way. 

Martha became tired and troubled and finally said, 
"Lord, dost Thou not care that my sister hath left me to 
serve alone? Bid her therefore that she help me." 

Jesus was not angry with Mary, for He knew that it 
was more important to learn God's will and serve Him 
than to attend to any other duty. He told Martha that 
she was troubled about many things, but Alary had 
chosen "the good part." 

One evening an entertainment was given for Jesus 
at the home of one of His friends named Peter. His 
disciples, Mary and probably Martha and Lazarus were 
among the guests. 

Mary's love and gratitude to her Lord were so great 
that she showed it in the best way she knew by pouring 
sweet smelling oil upon His head. It was very precious 
oil and was kept in a flask of white alabaster. 




Christ in the Home of Mary and Martha Hofmann 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST HI 

The disciples were poor fishermen from Galilee, so 
$50.00 seemed a large sum to them, and they were sin- 
cere in thinking it could have been used better in help- 
ing the poor, but Judas wanted it for himself, as he was 
in charge of the money bag, with which to buy things for 
Jesus, and often stole from it. Mary had thought that 
nothing was too good for Jesus. She thought that doing 
things for Jesus and learning His teachings were more 
important than anything else. 

Application: We know that we cannot go without 
food and yet it is even more important that we should 
serve the Lord. 

If a playmate should ask one of us to go to a party, 
or a picture show, or play, and it was time for Religion 
class, to which should we go? 

Which should grown-up people think the most im- 
portant — their work or religious duties? 

We should be more willing to find time to serve the 
Lord than for any kind of fun or work, because our first 
duty is to Him. 



112 PKIMARY DEPARTMENT 



LESSON 30. TRIUMPHAL ENTRY 
Text: Matt. 21:1-11. 

Reference : Weed's "A Life of Christ for the Young," 
Chapter LVIL 

Aim: Those who study the scriptures are best pre- 
pared to recognize God's servants who come among 
them. 

Memory Gem: "Blessed is he that cometh in the 
name of the Lord ; Hosanna in the highest." 

Picture: "Christ's Entry into Jerusalem" (Plock- 
horst). 

Outline: 
1. Preparation. 

1. Jesus' instructions to two disciples. 

2. The animals brought. 

3. Prophecy fulfilled. 

H. The Procession. 

1. A great multitude. 

2. Showing the road. 

3. Some of those who took part in it. 

HI. The people's greeting. 

1. "Hosanna to the son of David," etc. 
[V. The Entry into Jerusalem. 

1. All people stared. 

2. Acknowledged as a prophet. 

Lesson Statement: In what kind of a place was 
Tesus born? When He was a little boy how did He 





inting the Feet of Jesus 



Hofmann 



i-i.IlUliiLlllS 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 113 

help Joseph? When He grew up what kind of people 
did He usually mingle with? He slept and ate, just 
where He happened to be. He was always humble, 
not caring for palaces, beautiful clothes, servants, etc., 
that other kings have. And yet He is King of all 
kings and of all people who ever lived on the earth ! 
Some wanted Jesus to come as earthly kings come 
and be like them. Those who knew of His mission 
and knew of the wonderful things He did 
recognized that Jesus was greater than earthly kings — 
that He was the Son of God ! One time, just once in 
His life, He was treated as a king! Teachers, tell the 
story as contained in the text. 

This short ride of two miles is the only one we 
know of Jesus taking. During the entire time of his 
ministering, his journeys were on foot. 

Particularly emphasize the meaning of His riding 
on an ass, meek and lowly. Fulfillment of the prophesy 
of more than five hundred years previous. "Behold thy 
King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass." 
Its effect on the people. 

This was the only occasion on which Jesus was 
honored and shown public appreciation. 

Make a vivid picture of His followers that day: 
the blind who had been made to see, the lame who had 
been made to walk, the lepers who were cleansed, 
Lazarus and the daughter of Jairus raised from the 
dead, Martha and Mary who loved Him so dearly, His 
beloved disciples and many others not from this region 
only, but from Galilee, who by their presence in this 
procession showed their gratitude for what He had done 



U4 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

for them. He went before, as the crowd started from 
Bethany, and as the news of His coming spread, a great 
crowd gathered at Jerusalem and joined the procession. 
Tell of waving of palm branches and singing, "Blessed 
be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord, etc." 

Procession goes to the Temple where Jesus enters. 
The return to Bethany with the Twelve. 

The phrase "Hosanna to the Son of David, etc.," 
should be explained by reviewing the story of David, 
emphasizing the fact that he was one of the children 
of Israel. 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 115 

LESSON 31. THE LAST SUPPER 
Texts: Matt. 26:17-23; John 13:1-21. 

Reference: Weed's "A Life of Christ for the Young," 
Chapter LX. 

Time: Four days after the triumphal entry into 
Jerusalem. 

Aim : Partaking of the Sacrament gives spiritual 
strength. 

Memory Gem: 

"While of these emblems we partake, 

In Jesus' name and for His sake, 

Let us remember and be sure. 

Our hearts and hands are clean and pure." 

Picture: "The Last Supper" (Leonardo Da Yinci). 
Outline : 

I. Preparation of the Room. 

1. Instructions to two of the apostles. 

2. "Strewn and ready." 

a. Significance. 

II. Jesus washes the Apostles' feet. 

1. "He that is greatest among you let him be 
least." 

III. Administration of the Sacrament. 

1. Bread. 

a. Significance. 

2. Wine. 

a. Significance. 

3. Importance. 



116 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

Point of Contact and Lesson Statement: What did 
we do this morning that especially reminded us of 
Jesus? Would you like to learn of the very first time 
the Sacrament was administered? 

It was a large, upper room in what is thought 
by some to have been the home of Joseph of Arimathea. 
To it were carried a long, low table and long benches. 
Just as the room was cleaned and prepared for the 
Passover Feast, so was the Lord thoroughly prepared 
in Spirit for His crucifixion. 

As Jesus and the Apostles journeyed from place 
to place, their feet, which were protected only by 
sandals, became dusy and sore, so that the washing of 
them was more than merely a custom or form. This 
was usually done by servants. There were no servants 
in that upper room. As none of the Twelve offered to 
wash the Master's feet, He proceeded to wash their 
feet, thereby teaching a beautiful lesson — the greatness 
of humility. 

Jesus tells of the approaching betrayal ; compares 
Judas' conduct with that of the other apostles. 

"As they were eating, Jesus took bread and 
blessed it, and gave to the disciples and said, Take, eat. 
This is my body which is broken for you ; this do in 
remembrance of Me." 

Be sure to make clear to the children that the 
Sacrament was as our Sacrament today. Explain why 
we use water instead of wine. 

Application : Of whom should we be thinking when 
the Sacrament is administered? If we were thinking 
of Him we would never whisper, look at books, laugh 




Christ in Gethsemane 



Hofmann 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST \\J 

or play with anything all during the passing of the 
Sacrament. With which hand should we take it? How 
should our hands look? How should our hearts be? 
Let us remember our gem that tells us how they should 
be, "While of these emblems," etc. 



Ug PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 



LESSON 32. JESUS' SUFFERING IN THE GAR- 
DEN. BETRAYAL AND ARREST 

Texts: Matt. 26:30-56; Mark 14:26-52; Luke 22:39- 
54; John 18:1-12. 

Reference : Weed's "A Life of Christ for the Young," 
Chapter LXII; Dictionary of the Bible (Wm. Smith). 

Aim: Implicit faith in God gives strength and 
courage. 

Memory Gem: "Nevertheless not as 1 will, but 
as thou wilt." 

Pictures : "Christ in Gethsemane" (Hofmann) ; 
"The Kiss of Judas" (Geiger) ; "The Betrayal" (Dore) ; 
"Christ Taken Captive" (Hofmann). 

Outline : 

I. Jesus in the Garden. 

1. Tells His disciples of what is to follow. 

2. Their faithfulness. 

3. The chosen three. 

II. Jesus alone with God in the solitude. 

1. His great agony of soul. 

2. His three prayers. 

3. His submission to the will of God. 

III. He gently rebukes, then excuses disciples. 

IV. Betrayal. 

1. Judas brings officers to arrest Him. 

2. The kiss. 

a. The rebuke. 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 119 

3. "Whom seek ye?" 

a. Effect of words on multitude. 

b. Effect of words on disciples. 
V. The Arrest. 

1. Christ's w T ords to the officers. 

2. Christ bound. 

3. Brought before High Priest. 

Point of Contact: Have you ever had something 
very hard to do? Perhaps it was something that you 

disliked to do very much, and it seemed as though 
you just could not do it. How do you suppose you 
could receive courage and strength enough to do it? 
Jesus showed us the way. 

Lesson Statement: Let us picture clearly Jesus 
and His disciples going from the Upper Room, made 
sacred by that Last Supper, out into the darkness of 
the night ; the Savior's depression. As He had so 
often been a support to them, now, with loving sympa- 
thy, they were a comfort to Him. 

Quote freely beautiful passages throughout the 
story, such as "My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even 
unto death ; tarry ye here and watch with me ;" and 
"O, my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass me 
Nevertheless, not as I will, but as Thou wilt." By 
the cup is meant the agony of His body and soul. Only 
the Father is able to conceive of this agony. "His 
sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down 
to the ground." History tells us the same thing has 
happened since, being the result of mental anguish. 

As only so great a Soul is capable of such suffer- 



120 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

ing, likewise is it possible for only such a One to bow 
in submission to God's will in such an hour. 

It is supposed Judas conceived his wicked scheme 
at the supper in Bethany. 

Application: Impress the children with the thought 
that no matter what trials they may have to bear in 
their lives, if they remember to trust in God they 
will receive strength and courage. Jesus had far more 
to suffer than any of us have, and through His faith 
and trust He was able to say, "Nevertheless not as I 
will, but as Thou wilt." We always want to be willing 
to do whatever our Heavenlv Father desires. 




The Kiss of Judas 



Geiger 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 121 



LESSON 33. CRUCIFIXION AND BURIAL 

Texts : Matt. 27 :27-66 ; Mark 15 :30-47 ; Luke 23 :26- 
53; John 19:17-42. 

Reference : Weed's "A Life of Christ for the Young," 
Chapters LXIV-LXV; Dictionary of the Bible (Wm. 
Smith). 

Aim: True greatness consists in losing self for the 
good of others. 

Memory Gem: "Father forgive them for they know 
not what they do." 

Pictures: "Christ before Pilate" (Munkacsy) ; 
"Bearing the Cross" (De Crespi) ; "The Crucifixion" 
(Michael Angelo) ; "Entombment" (Hofmann). 

Outline : 

I. Jesus on the Way to Golgotha or Calvary. 

1. His bodily weakness. 

a. Sinks beneath the cross. 

2. Sympathy manifested. 

a. By women. 

b. Christ's sympathy for them. 

II. The Crucifixion. 

1. Love for others shown. 

a. "Father forgive them," Luke 23-24. 

b. "Mother behold thy Son," John 19:26. 

c. Today shalt thou be," etc., Luke 23-42. 

d. "I thirst, etc., John 19-28. The only thought 

of self. 

e. "It is finished," John 19-40. 

f. "Father, into Thy hands," Luke 23-46. 



122 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

III. Significance of His Death. 

1. Redemption of mankind. 

2. Universal resurrection. 

3. Love for all. 

IV. The Burial. 

1. Joseph of Arimathea requests Christ's body of 

Pilate. 

2. Preparation for burial. 

a. Examples of loving service. 

3. Place of burial. 

a. In the garden. 

b. Joseph's new tomb. 

c. Describe ancient mode of burial. 

Point of Contact: Why did our Heavenly Father 
send Jesus to the world? He not only came to teach us 
and show us how to live, but also to die for the sins 
of the world. AYhen Jesus left the garden. He knew 
God's will, and he was ready to do it. Our Heavenly 
Father was willing that His Beloved Son should die 
so that ail of His other children should live again. 
Jesus was the only one great enough to make this 
possible. Teachers, in telling how Jesus died do not 
emphasize the awfulness of it. but His willingness, for- 
giveness and greatness. 

The only sign recorded of sympathy in this most 
brutal and cruel treatment was shown by women. This 
was checked by Jesus Himself, who for the time being 
was forgetful of His own suffering in thinking of the 
judgment that was to come on Jerusalem. 

Lesson Statement: "It was a custom of wealthy 
ladies in Jerusalem, in pity for those to be crucified, no 




> 

a 

a 

c 




Entombment 



Hofmann 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 123 

matter how base their crimes, to furnish something 
by which sensibility would be deadened and suffering 
diminished. Such was offered to Jesus, but He de- 
clined it, willing to suffer all that such a death involved. 
He had said, "The cup which My Father hath given 
me, shall I not drink it?" 

This deed — dying for the world — was the greatest 
act of Jesus' life. It was planned before any person 
ever came to this earth. God planned it when our 
spirits all lived in heaven. 

The Jews uniformly disposed of the corpse by 
entombment, where possible, extending this respect to 
the remains even^of the slain enemy, in the latter case 
by express provision of law. A natural cave, enlarged 
and adapted by excavation, or an artificial imitation of 
one, was the standard type of sepulchre. These, when 
the owner's means permitted it, were commonly pre- 
pared beforehand. Spices were used in preparing bodies 
for burial, and some were burned in honor of deceased 
persons when their relatives were able to purchase them. 

Application: Nearly every day of their lives child- 
ren are given opportunities to do little acts of helpful- 
ness and kindness requiring self-sacrifice. If they 
would make their little sacrifices freely, without stopping 
to question whether they want to or not, how much 
happier they would make themselves and others. 



124 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 



LESSON 34. THE RESURRECTION 

Text: John 20:1-18. 

References: Weed's "A Life of Christ for the 
Young/' Chapter LX VII— Part of Chapter LXVI ; 
Primary Department Bible Stories, No. 32. 

Note : While reference is made to full chapters in 
Weed's "Life of Christ,'' teachers will observe that the 
lessons are not intended to bring out all their contents. 

Pictures: "Holy Women at the Tomb" (Bouguer- 
eau) ; "Easter Morning" (Hofmann) ; : "Touch Ale Not" 
(C. Schonherr) ; "He Is Risen" (Plockhorst) . 

Aim: Through the power of Jesus all of us will be 
resurrected. 

Memory Gem: "I am the resurrection and the life. 
He that believeth in Me, though he were dead yet shall 
he live." 

Outline : 
I. The Sepulchre. 

1. Visited by Mary. 

a. Object of visit. 

b. "Who shall roll away the stone?" 

2. The stone taken away. 

a. Mary's surprise. 

b. How it had happened. 

3. Jesus gone. 

a. Mary's grief and anxiety. 

b. Hastens with news to Peter and John. 

4. Visited by Peter and John. 




Women at the Tomb 



Bouguereau 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 125 

II. The angels. 

1. Seen by Mary. 

2. Speaks to her. 

3. Mary's reply. 

a. Her deep grief. 

III. The Risen Lord Appears. 

1. Not recognized at first. 

2. The recognition. 

a. Mary's great joy. 

3. His request. 

Point of Contact: Has some one whom you loved 
very dearly ever died and been buried? How very, 
very much we would like to see our loved ones again ! 
Can we imagine such happiness ! 

Lesson Statement: Jesus had died and been buried. 
The apostles, Mary and others were all mourning over 
His death. 

It was the first day of the week after they had 
buried the Lord, that Mary came, before it was light, to 
bring ointments. No doubt she had purchased them be- 
fore the Sabbath and was anxiously waiting to take them 
to Him who was constantly in her mind. She did not 
know that a seal had been placed on the stone and Ro- 
man soldiers left to guard the tomb. Mary did not know 
that the Lord had sent an angel to roll away the stone 
and that there had been an earthquake and the soldiers 
were stricken as if dead. She was glad the stone was 
removed, but was filled with fear when she found His 
body gone. She feared they had stolen it — she did not 
understand the full meaning of His mission. How sad 
she was when she bore the news to Peter and John ! They 



126 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

ran to the tomb, found his clothes carefully folded, but no 
Jesus ! 

Mary could not tear herself away when the apos- 
tles left, and sat sweeping outside. She saw two glorious 
angels, but even they did not comfort her. She turned 
away. 

She saw a man standing. He spoke to her ask- 
ing, "Why weepest thou?" Mary thought it was the gar- 
dener, and plead with him to tell her of Jesus. Then she 
heard her name spoken and now she knew who it was. 
It was Jesus standing there talking to her ! She heard 
Him ! She saw Him with the same body that had been 
nailed to the cross and lain in the sepulchre! Jesus .was 
alive again. He was resurrected! Can we imagine Mary's 
joy; and how eagerly she bore the news to the apostles! 
[If the children know the memory gem, "For God so 
loved the world," etc., have them repeat it.] Now we 
know better what it means. Jesus healed the sick, did all 
manner of good deeds, showed us how to live : but more 
than this, He died for us. He had power to be resur- 
rected. If he had not died for us, we never would have 
lived after we died. Now we will have our bodies again 
as Jesus had His. Our dear ones who are already dead 
will also be resurrected some day, and if we are good we 
shall see and be with them again. All this because 
Jesus had power over death. Those cruel men could 
crucify Him, but they could not interfere with His mis- 
sion — they could not prevent His rising again. Jesus 
did the work our Heavenly Father wanted Him to do 
when He sent Him down from heaven. Jesus said, "I 
am the resurrection and the life. He that believeth in 
Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live." 




Easter Morning 



Hofmann 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 127 



LESSON 35. THE ASCENSION 
Text: Acts 1 :1-11. 

Reference : Weed's "A Life of Christ for the Young," 
Chapter LXXII ; Primary Department Bible Stories, 
No. 34. 

Aim : By obedience to His teachings we may be with 
Him when He comes again. 

Memory Gem: "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye 
gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken 
up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as 
ye have seen Him go into heaven." — Acts 1:11. 

Picture: The Ascension (Hofmann). 

Outline : 

I. Jesus Meets with His Apostles. 

1. His teachings and instructions. 

2. Leads them to Mount of Olives. . 

II. He Ascends to Heaven. 

1. In the presence of His disciples. 

III. The Angels. 

1. Their declaration. 

Point of Contact and Lesson Statement: When 
men die, where do they leave all their gold, houses, 
beautiful clothes? 

If a person has done many kind acts, been obedient 
to the teachings of the Savior, what will be waiting for 
him when he goes to heaven? We cannot take any of 
our earthly possessions with us, but we can have treas- 



128 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 

tires waiting for us if we do good acts and live good 
lives. Think how much good Jesus did! He spent His 
whole life just doing good. Besides this, He had never 
done a single thing that was wrong in His whole life ! 
There surely were a great many treasures or blessings 
waiting for Jesus. 

Before Jesus went to heaven there were others who 
saw and talked with Him. 

The Ascension occurred forty days after the cruci- 
fixion. This lesson may be prefaced with a short account 
of Jesus' visit in Galilee with the five hundred, w T hen so 
many beheld his resurrected body and heard again the 
voice of Him w r ho had been dead. 

The disciples returned to Jerusalem according to His 
instructions and there He met them for the last time. He 
told them of the authority that was to be sent to them. 
He told them that they should go to every nation and 
preach His gospel and help men to believe and obey His 
teachings. 

He led then? to Olivet. Review some of the preced- 
ing events of His life that happened not far distant : the 
song of the angels over the Shepherd plain ; the Jordan 
rolled in the distance, where He was baptized; Bethany, 
below the road over which He rode in triumph; the 
white and golden Temple where Simeon and Anna had 
rejoiced and where He went to learn of His Father's 
business that now had been accomplished; Gethsemane; 
Calvary; the tomb which was now empty. 

He lifted up His hands — the hands that had done so 
many marvelous things for the deaf, the blind, the sick 
and even the dead, and, while He blessed them, a cloud 




The Ascension 



'I HE LIFE OF CHRIST 129 

received Him out of their sight, and He was taken up 
into heaven. What rejoicing there must have been in 
heaven when the Father's own beloved Son returned after 
finishing His work so well ! How the angels must have 
sung with joy! 

The declaration the angels made of His second com- 
ing has not been fulfilled, after all these years ; but some 
day Jesus is coming back to this very earth in the clouds 
of heaven with hosts of angels. If we are living we may 
be caught up to meet Him. If we have died He may 
bring us down with Him. Would not that be glorious? 
It rests with us whether or not we are with Jesus. What 
kind of people must we be? What are some things we 
must do in order to be good enough? 

We would surely have to store up a great many 
treasures in heaven in order to be blessed enough to be 
with Him when He comes again. 



130 PRIMARY DEPARTMENT 



LESSON 36. THE GREAT PENTECOST 
Text: Acts 2:1-41. 

Reference : Smith's Dictionary of Bible. 
Memory Gem: "Then said Peter unto them, 'Re- 
pent and be baptized, every one, etc.' ' ; Acts 2 :38. 
Aim: Baptism is essential to salvation. 
Outline : 

I. Meeting of the apostles. 

1. In a house. 

2. The heavenly manifestation. 

(a) The Holy Ghost. 

(b) The gift of tongues. 

II. The public gathering. 

1. The occasion. 

2. Jews from all nations. 

3. Manifestation of the Spirit. 

4. The derision. 

5. Peter's explanation. 

III. Peter's great testimony. 

1. Inspired by the Holy Ghost. 

2. To whom given. 

(a) The crucifiers of the Savior. 

(b) Its effect on the people. 

1. Their question. 

2. Peter's answer; repeat Acts 2:38. 

3. Conversion and baptism. 

Point of Contact: Who is now the president of 
Jesus' church? Whom had Jesus left at the head of His 



THE LIFE OF CHRIST 131 

church after He was crucified? When Jesus is not on 
the earth He chooses very good and great men to be the 
presidents of His church. He gives them His power and 
all people should obey their teachings as they tell us 
what Jesus wants us to do. 

Lesson Statement: The apostles met together 
in a house, before going out with the people, just as 
the}* had done on several occasions when Christ was 
with them. 

The promise of our Lord to His disciples regarding 
the Gift of tongues (Mark 16:17,) was fulfilled on the day 
of Pentecost, when cloven tongues like fire sat upon the 
disciples and every man heard them in his own language. 
"Tongues" were first used in expressing praise. 

Pentecost was the second of the great festivals 
of the Hebrews. It was celebrated by feasting and 
thanksgiving for the harvest. It commenced with the 
offering of sheaves of barley and loaves of bread. There 
were also burnt offerings of lambs, kids, and bullocks. 

Application : Speak of the baptism of Jesus and John, 
and then of our baptism of today, showing that it is the 
same ordinance, and that any other form couldn't be 
rieht. 



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